Mobile terminal and controlling method thereof

ABSTRACT

Disclosed are a mobile terminal and controlling method thereof. The present invention includes a sensing unit, a camera, a display unit, and a controller configured to launch a camera application, wherein the controller is further configured to execute a splice mode on the camera application, wherein the splice mode is a mode for outputting a preview image region and a splice region to the display unit by partitioning, and wherein the controller is further configured to output a preview image currently shot through the camera to the preview image region and recommend a splice image outputted to the splice region based on the outputted preview image.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a mobile terminal and controllingmethod thereof, and more particularly, to a mobile terminal andcontrolling method thereof, suitable for executing a splice mode foroutputting a preview image region and a splice region on a cameraapplication.

Discussion of the Related Art

Terminals may be generally classified as mobile/portable terminals orstationary terminals according to their mobility. Mobile terminals mayalso be classified as handheld terminals or vehicle mounted terminalsaccording to whether or not a user can directly carry the terminal.

Mobile terminals have become increasingly more functional. Examples ofsuch functions include data and voice communications, capturing imagesand video via a camera, recording audio, playing music files via aspeaker system, and displaying images and video on a display. Somemobile terminals include additional functionality which supports gameplaying, while other terminals are configured as multimedia players.More recently, mobile terminals have been configured to receivebroadcast and multicast signals which permit viewing of content such asvideos and television programs.

As functions of the terminal are getting diversified, the terminal tendsto be implemented as a multimedia player provided with complex functionssuch as photographing of photos or videos, playback of music or videofiles, game play, broadcast reception and the like for example.

Efforts are ongoing to support and increase the functionality of mobileterminals. Such efforts include software and hardware improvements, aswell as changes and improvements in the structural components.

Recently, an image is generally captured by a camera built in a mobileterminal. Yet, a mobile terminal just provides a function of applying afilter to an image or a function of zooming in to or out from an imagein the course of photographing, and provides a function of editing thecaptured image after completion of the photographing only.

Moreover, a recent mobile terminal is provided with a function ofcreating a fun image by splicing an image to an already captured imagethrough various camera applications.

Therefore, users may demand a function of automatically recommending animage that may be funny if combined with a preview image in the courseof shooting an image or video.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to address theabove-noted and other problems.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a mobile terminaland controlling method thereof, which outputs a preview image region foroutputting a preview image currently shot through a camera on a cameraapplication and a splice region for outputting a splice imagerecommended on the basis of the outputted preview image.

To achieve these objects and other advantages and in accordance with thepurpose of the invention, as embodied and broadly described herein, thepresent invention provides in one aspect a mobile terminal, including asensing unit, a camera, a display unit, and a controller configured tolaunch a camera application, wherein the controller is furtherconfigured to execute a splice mode on the camera application, whereinthe splice mode is a mode for outputting a preview image region and asplice region to the display unit by partitioning, and wherein thecontroller is further configured to output a preview image currentlyshot through the camera to the preview image region and recommend asplice image outputted to the splice region based on the outputtedpreview image.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the mobile terminalmay further include a memory and a wireless communication unit, and thecontroller may obtain the splice image through the memory (e.g.,gallery) or the wireless communication unit (e.g., web browser, SNS,external DB).

According to one aspect of the present invention, the controller mayrecommend the splice image based on at least one selected from anoutline, color and category of the preview image.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the controller maypan, rotate, enlarge or reduce at least one of the recommended spliceimage and the preview image based on the splice image or the previewimage.

According to one aspect of the present invention, at least one of pan,rotation, enlargement or reduction of the splice image or the previewimage may be performed based on a user's input.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the controller mayrecommend a first splice image based on the outline of the previewimage, output the recommended first splice image to the splice region,and recommend a second splice image based on the outline of the previewimage if sensing a first input signal for selecting the first spliceimage.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the controller mayextract an outline of at least one of the recommended splice image andthe preview image and pan, rotate, enlarge or reduce at least one of thesplice image and the preview image based on the extracted outline.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the controller mayrecommend a third splice image based on the color of the preview image,output the recommended third splice image to the splice region, andchange a color of at least one of the preview image and the third spliceimage if sensing a second input signal for selecting the preview imageor the third splice image.

According to one aspect of the present invention, if sensing the secondinput signal, the controller may extract at least one color included inthe preview image or the third splice image, output the extracted colorlist, and change the color of at least one of the preview image and thethird splice image based on a color selected from the extracted colorlist.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the controller mayrecommend a fourth splice image based on the category of the previewimage, output the recommended fourth splice image to the splice region,recommend a fifth splice image having the same category of the fourthsplice image if sensing a third input signal for selecting the fourthsplice image in a first direction, and recommend a sixth splice imagehaving a category different from that of the fourth splice image ifsensing a fourth input signal for selecting the fourth splice image in asecond direction.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the wirelesscommunication unit may include a location information module and thecontroller may determine a location, at which the preview image is shot,through the location information module and recommend the splice imagebased on the location.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the controller maydetect a direction of a first subject contained in the splice image anda direction of the mobile terminal and output a popup indicating tochange the direction of the mobile terminal based on the direction ofthe first subject to the preview image.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the controller maydetect a direction of a second subject contained in the preview image,rotate the preview image based on the detected direction of the secondsubject, and output a popup indicating to change the direction of themobile terminal based on the direction of the second subject.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the controller maydetect at least one of a moving speed and a direction of a third subjectcontained in the preview image and control the splice image to movebased on at least one of the moving speed and direction of the thirdsubject.

According to one aspect of the present invention, if sensing a fifthinput signal for selecting the preview image or the splice image, thecontroller may change the selected preview or splice image.

According to one aspect of the present invention, while the previewimage and the splice image are outputted, if a rotation of the mobileterminal is detected, the controller may control the splice image regionnot to be rotated automatically.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the controller maycreate a single image by splicing the outputted preview image and therecommended splice image together and save at least one of the previewimage, the splice image and the created image.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the controller mayshare at least one of the preview image, the splice image and thecreated image with an external device or server through the wirelesscommunication unit.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method ofcontrolling a mobile terminal, including launching a camera application,executing a splice mode on the camera application, the splice modecomprising a mode for outputting a preview image region and a spliceregion to the display unit by partitioning, outputting a preview imagecurrently shot through the camera to the preview image region, andrecommending a splice image outputted to the splice region based on theoutputted preview image.

Accordingly, the present invention provides the following effects and/orfeatures.

According to at least one of embodiments of the present invention, whilea currently shot preview image is outputted to a preview image region, amobile terminal checks a splice image recommended on the basis of apreview image and advantageously create a connected image inconsideration of both of the preview image and the splice image.

Further scope of applicability of the present invention will becomeapparent from the detailed description given hereinafter. However, itshould be understood that the detailed description and specificexamples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, aregiven by illustration only, since various changes and modificationswithin the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent tothose skilled in the art from this detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will become more fully understood from thedetailed description given herein below and the accompanying drawings,which are given by illustration only, and thus are not limitative of thepresent invention, and wherein:

FIG. 1A is a block diagram of a mobile terminal in accordance with thepresent disclosure;

FIGS. 1B and 1C are conceptual views of one example of the mobileterminal, viewed from different directions;

FIG. 2 is a conceptual view of a deformable mobile terminal according toan alternative embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a conceptual view of a wearable mobile terminal according toanother alternative embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram to describe configuration modules of a mobileterminal according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a simultaneousshot mode in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 6 is a diagram to describe another example of executing asimultaneous shot mode in a mobile terminal according to one embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a sequentialshot mode in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 8 is a diagram to describe another example of executing asequential shot mode in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 9 is a diagram to describe another example of executing asequential shot mode in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 10 is a diagram to describe another example of executing asequential shot mode in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 11 is a diagram to describe further example of executing asequential shot mode in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 12 is a diagram to describe one example of saving a shot image in amobile terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a diagram to describe one example of sharing a shot image ina mobile terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a diagram to describe one example of returning to a previouscamera mode in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 15 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a splice modein a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 16 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a splice modeon the basis of an outline in a mobile terminal according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a diagram to describe another example of executing a splicemode on the basis of an outline in a mobile terminal according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a splice modeon the basis of a color in a mobile terminal according to one embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a diagram to describe another example of executing a splicemode on the basis of a color in a mobile terminal according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a splice modeon the basis of a category in a mobile terminal according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 21 is a diagram to describe another example of executing a splicemode on the basis of a category in a mobile terminal according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a diagram to describe further example of executing a splicemode on the basis of a category in a mobile terminal according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 23 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a splice modeon the basis of a location in a mobile terminal according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 24 is a diagram to describe another example of executing a splicemode on the basis of a location in a mobile terminal according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 25 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a splice modeon the basis of a direction of a subject in a mobile terminal accordingto one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 26 is a diagram to describe another example of executing a splicemode on the basis of a direction of a subject in a mobile terminalaccording to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 27 is a diagram to describe further example of executing a splicemode on the basis of a direction of a subject in a mobile terminalaccording to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 28 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a splice modeon the basis of a moving speed or a moving direction of a subject in amobile terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention;and

FIG. 29 is a flowchart to describe one example of executing a splicemode in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Description will now be given in detail according to exemplaryembodiments disclosed herein, with reference to the accompanyingdrawings. For the sake of brief description with reference to thedrawings, the same or equivalent components may be provided with thesame reference numbers, and description thereof will not be repeated. Ingeneral, a suffix such as “module” and “unit” may be used to refer toelements or components. Use of such a suffix herein is merely intendedto facilitate description of the specification, and the suffix itself isnot intended to give any special meaning or function. In the presentdisclosure, that which is well-known to one of ordinary skill in therelevant art has generally been omitted for the sake of brevity. Theaccompanying drawings are used to help easily understand varioustechnical features and it should be understood that the embodimentspresented herein are not limited by the accompanying drawings. As such,the present disclosure should be construed to extend to any alterations,equivalents and substitutes in addition to those which are particularlyset out in the accompanying drawings.

It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc. may beused herein to describe various elements, these elements should not belimited by these terms. These terms are generally only used todistinguish one element from another.

It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being“connected with” another element, the element can be connected with theother element or intervening elements may also be present. In contrast,when an element is referred to as being “directly connected with”another element, there are no intervening elements present.

A singular representation may include a plural representation unless itrepresents a definitely different meaning from the context. Terms suchas “include” or “has” are used herein and should be understood that theyare intended to indicate an existence of several components, functionsor steps, disclosed in the specification, and it is also understood thatgreater or fewer components, functions, or steps may likewise beutilized.

Mobile terminals presented herein may be implemented using a variety ofdifferent types of terminals. Examples of such terminals includecellular phones, smart phones, user equipment, laptop computers, digitalbroadcast terminals, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portablemultimedia players (PMPs), navigators, portable computers (PCs), slatePCs, tablet PCs, ultra books, wearable devices (for example, smartwatches, smart glasses, head mounted displays (HMDs)), and the like.

By way of non-limiting example only, further description will be madewith reference to particular types of mobile terminals. However, suchteachings apply equally to other types of terminals, such as those typesnoted above. In addition, these teachings may also be applied tostationary terminals such as digital TV, desktop computers, and thelike.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 1A-1C, where FIG. 1A is a block diagramof a mobile terminal in accordance with the present disclosure, andFIGS. 1B and 1C are conceptual views of one example of the mobileterminal, viewed from different directions.

The mobile terminal 100 is shown having components such as a wirelesscommunication unit 110, an input unit 120, a sensing unit 140, an outputunit 150, an interface unit 160, a memory 170, a controller 180, and apower supply unit 190. It is understood that implementing all of theillustrated components is not a requirement, and that greater or fewercomponents may alternatively be implemented.

Referring now to FIG. 1A, the mobile terminal 100 is shown havingwireless communication unit 110 configured with several commonlyimplemented components. For instance, the wireless communication unit110 typically includes one or more components which permit wirelesscommunication between the mobile terminal 100 and a wirelesscommunication system or network within which the mobile terminal islocated.

The wireless communication unit 110 typically includes one or moremodules which permit communications such as wireless communicationsbetween the mobile terminal 100 and a wireless communication system,communications between the mobile terminal 100 and another mobileterminal, communications between the mobile terminal 100 and an externalserver. Further, the wireless communication unit 110 typically includesone or more modules which connect the mobile terminal 100 to one or morenetworks. To facilitate such communications, the wireless communicationunit 110 includes one or more of a broadcast receiving module 111, amobile communication module 112, a wireless Internet module 113, ashort-range communication module 114, and a location information module115.

The input unit 120 includes a camera 121 for obtaining images or video,a microphone 122, which is one type of audio input device for inputtingan audio signal, and a user input unit 123 (for example, a touch key, apush key, a mechanical key, a soft key, and the like) for allowing auser to input information. Data (for example, audio, video, image, andthe like) is obtained by the input unit 120 and may be analyzed andprocessed by controller 180 according to device parameters, usercommands, and combinations thereof.

The sensing unit 140 is typically implemented using one or more sensorsconfigured to sense internal information of the mobile terminal, thesurrounding environment of the mobile terminal, user information, andthe like. For example, in FIG. 1A, the sensing unit 140 is shown havinga proximity sensor 141 and an illumination sensor 142.

If desired, the sensing unit 140 may alternatively or additionallyinclude other types of sensors or devices, such as a touch sensor, anacceleration sensor, a magnetic sensor, a G-sensor, a gyroscope sensor,a motion sensor, an RGB sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a finger scansensor, a ultrasonic sensor, an optical sensor (for example, camera121), a microphone 122, a battery gauge, an environment sensor (forexample, a barometer, a hygrometer, a thermometer, a radiation detectionsensor, a thermal sensor, and a gas sensor, among others), and achemical sensor (for example, an electronic nose, a health care sensor,a biometric sensor, and the like), to name a few. The mobile terminal100 may be configured to utilize information obtained from sensing unit140, and in particular, information obtained from one or more sensors ofthe sensing unit 140, and combinations thereof.

The output unit 150 is typically configured to output various types ofinformation, such as audio, video, tactile output, and the like. Theoutput unit 150 is shown having a display unit 151, an audio outputmodule 152, a haptic module 153, and an optical output module 154.

The display unit 151 may have an inter-layered structure or anintegrated structure with a touch sensor in order to facilitate a touchscreen. The touch screen may provide an output interface between themobile terminal 100 and a user, as well as function as the user inputunit 123 which provides an input interface between the mobile terminal100 and the user.

The interface unit 160 serves as an interface with various types ofexternal devices that can be coupled to the mobile terminal 100. Theinterface unit 160, for example, may include any of wired or wirelessports, external power supply ports, wired or wireless data ports, memorycard ports, ports for connecting a device having an identificationmodule, audio input/output (I/O) ports, video I/O ports, earphone ports,and the like. In some cases, the mobile terminal 100 may performassorted control functions associated with a connected external device,in response to the external device being connected to the interface unit160.

The memory 170 is typically implemented to store data to support variousfunctions or features of the mobile terminal 100. For instance, thememory 170 may be configured to store application programs executed inthe mobile terminal 100, data or instructions for operations of themobile terminal 100, and the like. Some of these application programsmay be downloaded from an external server via wireless communication.Other application programs may be installed within the mobile terminal100 at time of manufacturing or shipping, which is typically the casefor basic functions of the mobile terminal 100 (for example, receiving acall, placing a call, receiving a message, sending a message, and thelike). It is common for application programs to be stored in the memory170, installed in the mobile terminal 100, and executed by thecontroller 180 to perform an operation (or function) for the mobileterminal 100.

The controller 180 typically functions to control overall operation ofthe mobile terminal 100, in addition to the operations associated withthe application programs. The controller 180 may provide or processinformation or functions appropriate for a user by processing signals,data, information and the like, which are input or output by the variouscomponents depicted in FIG. 1A, or activating application programsstored in the memory 170. As one example, the controller 180 controlssome or all of the components illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1C according tothe execution of an application program that have been stored in thememory 170.

The power supply unit 190 can be configured to receive external power orprovide internal power in order to supply appropriate power required foroperating elements and components included in the mobile terminal 100.The power supply unit 190 may include a battery, and the battery may beconfigured to be embedded in the terminal body, or configured to bedetachable from the terminal body.

Referring still to FIG. 1A, various components depicted in this figurewill now be described in more detail. Regarding the wirelesscommunication unit 110, the broadcast receiving module 111 is typicallyconfigured to receive a broadcast signal and/or broadcast associatedinformation from an external broadcast managing entity via a broadcastchannel. The broadcast channel may include a satellite channel, aterrestrial channel, or both. In some embodiments, two or more broadcastreceiving modules 111 may be utilized to facilitate simultaneouslyreceiving of two or more broadcast channels, or to support switchingamong broadcast channels.

system which generates and transmits a broadcast signal and/or broadcastassociated information, or a server which receives a pre-generatedbroadcast signal and/or broadcast associated information, and sends suchitems to the mobile terminal. The broadcast signal may be implementedusing any of a TV broadcast signal, a radio broadcast signal, a databroadcast signal, and combinations thereof, among others. The broadcastsignal in some cases may further include a data broadcast signalcombined with a TV or radio broadcast signal.

The broadcast signal may be encoded according to any of a variety oftechnical standards or broadcasting methods (for example, InternationalOrganization for Standardization (ISO), International ElectrotechnicalCommission (IEC), Digital Video Broadcast (DVB), Advanced TelevisionSystems Committee (ATSC), and the like) for transmission and receptionof digital broadcast signals. The broadcast receiving module 111 canreceive the digital broadcast signals using a method appropriate for thetransmission method utilized.

Examples of broadcast associated information may include informationassociated with a broadcast channel, a broadcast program, a broadcastevent, a broadcast service provider, or the like. The broadcastassociated information may also be provided via a mobile communicationnetwork, and in this case, received by the mobile communication module112.

The broadcast associated information may be implemented in variousformats. For instance, broadcast associated information may include anElectronic Program Guide (EPG) of Digital Multimedia Broadcasting (DMB),an Electronic Service Guide (ESG) of Digital Video Broadcast-Handheld(DVB-H), and the like. Broadcast signals and/or broadcast associatedinformation received via the broadcast receiving module 111 may bestored in a suitable device, such as a memory 170.

The mobile communication module 112 can transmit and/or receive wirelesssignals to and from one or more network entities. Typical examples of anetwork entity include a base station, an external mobile terminal, aserver, and the like. Such network entities form part of a mobilecommunication network, which is constructed according to technicalstandards or communication methods for mobile communications (forexample, Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), Code DivisionMulti Access (CDMA), CDMA2000 (Code Division Multi Access 2000), EV-DO(Enhanced Voice-Data Optimized or Enhanced Voice-Data Only), WidebandCDMA (WCDMA), High Speed Downlink Packet access (HSDPA), HSUPA (HighSpeed Uplink Packet Access), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-A (Long TermEvolution-Advanced), and the like). Examples of wireless signalstransmitted and/or received via the mobile communication module 112include audio call signals, video (telephony) call signals, or variousformats of data to support communication of text and multimediamessages.

The wireless Internet module 113 is configured to facilitate wirelessInternet access. This module may be internally or externally coupled tothe mobile terminal 100. The wireless Internet module 113 may transmitand/or receive wireless signals via communication networks according towireless Internet technologies.

Examples of such wireless Internet access include Wireless LAN (WLAN),Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi), Wi-Fi Direct, Digital Living Network Alliance(DLNA), Wireless Broadband (WiBro), Worldwide Interoperability forMicrowave Access (WiMAX), High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA),HSUPA (High Speed Uplink Packet Access), Long Term Evolution (LTE),LTE-A (Long Term Evolution-Advanced), and the like. The wirelessInternet module 113 may transmit/receive data according to one or moreof such wireless Internet technologies, and other Internet technologiesas well.

In some embodiments, when the wireless Internet access is implementedaccording to, for example, WiBro, HSDPA, HSUPA, GSM, CDMA, WCDMA, LTE,LTE-A and the like, as part of a mobile communication network, thewireless Internet module 113 performs such wireless Internet access. Assuch, the Internet module 113 may cooperate with, or function as, themobile communication module 112.

The short-range communication module 114 is configured to facilitateshort-range communications. Suitable technologies for implementing suchshort-range communications include BLUETOOTH™, Radio FrequencyIDentification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra-WideB and(UWB), ZigBee, Near Field Communication (NFC), Wireless-Fidelity(Wi-Fi), Wi-Fi Direct, Wireless USB (Wireless Universal Serial Bus), andthe like. The short-range communication module 114 in general supportswireless communications between the mobile terminal 100 and a wirelesscommunication system, communications between the mobile terminal 100 andanother mobile terminal 100, or communications between the mobileterminal and a network where another mobile terminal 100 (or an externalserver) is located, via wireless area networks. One example of thewireless area networks is a wireless personal area networks.

In some embodiments, another mobile terminal (which may be configuredsimilarly to mobile terminal 100) may be a wearable device, for example,a smart watch, a smart glass or a head mounted display (HMD), which isable to exchange data with the mobile terminal 100 (or otherwisecooperate with the mobile terminal 100). The short-range communicationmodule 114 may sense or recognize the wearable device, and permitcommunication between the wearable device and the mobile terminal 100.In addition, when the sensed wearable device is a device which isauthenticated to communicate with the mobile terminal 100, thecontroller 180, for example, may cause transmission of data processed inthe mobile terminal 100 to the wearable device via the short-rangecommunication module 114. Hence, a user of the wearable device may usethe data processed in the mobile terminal 100 on the wearable device.For example, when a call is received in the mobile terminal 100, theuser may answer the call using the wearable device. Also, when a messageis received in the mobile terminal 100, the user can check the receivedmessage using the wearable device.

The location information module 115 is generally configured to detect,calculate, derive or otherwise identify a position of the mobileterminal. As an example, the location information module 115 includes aGlobal Position System (GPS) module, a Wi-Fi module, or both. Ifdesired, the location information module 115 may alternatively oradditionally function with any of the other modules of the wirelesscommunication unit 110 to obtain data related to the position of themobile terminal.

As one example, when the mobile terminal uses a GPS module, a positionof the mobile terminal may be acquired using a signal sent from a GPSsatellite. As another example, when the mobile terminal uses the Wi-Fimodule, a position of the mobile terminal can be acquired based oninformation related to a wireless access point (AP) which transmits orreceives a wireless signal to or from the Wi-Fi module.

The input unit 120 may be configured to permit various types of input tothe mobile terminal 120. Examples of such input include audio, image,video, data, and user input. Image and video input is often obtainedusing one or more cameras 121. Such cameras 121 may process image framesof still pictures or video obtained by image sensors in a video or imagecapture mode. The processed image frames can be displayed on the displayunit 151 or stored in memory 170. In some cases, the cameras 121 may bearranged in a matrix configuration to permit a plurality of imageshaving various angles or focal points to be input to the mobile terminal100. As another example, the cameras 121 may be located in astereoscopic arrangement to acquire left and right images forimplementing a stereoscopic image.

The microphone 122 is generally implemented to permit audio input to themobile terminal 100. The audio input can be processed in various mannersaccording to a function being executed in the mobile terminal 100. Ifdesired, the microphone 122 may include assorted noise removingalgorithms to remove unwanted noise generated in the course of receivingthe external audio.

The user input unit 123 is a component that permits input by a user.Such user input may enable the controller 180 to control operation ofthe mobile terminal 100. The user input unit 123 may include one or moreof a mechanical input element (for example, a key, a button located on afront and/or rear surface or a side surface of the mobile terminal 100,a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, and the like), or atouch-sensitive input, among others. As one example, the touch-sensitiveinput may be a virtual key or a soft key, which is displayed on a touchscreen through software processing, or a touch key which is located onthe mobile terminal at a location that is other than the touch screen.On the other hand, the virtual key or the visual key may be displayed onthe touch screen in various shapes, for example, graphic, text, icon,video, or a combination thereof.

The sensing unit 140 is generally configured to sense one or more ofinternal information of the mobile terminal, surrounding environmentinformation of the mobile terminal, user information, or the like. Thecontroller 180 generally cooperates with the sending unit 140 to controloperation of the mobile terminal 100 or execute data processing, afunction or an operation associated with an application programinstalled in the mobile terminal based on the sensing provided by thesensing unit 140. The sensing unit 140 may be implemented using any of avariety of sensors, some of which will now be described in more detail.

The proximity sensor 141 may include a sensor to sense presence orabsence of an object approaching a surface, or an object located near asurface, by using an electromagnetic field, infrared rays, or the likewithout a mechanical contact. The proximity sensor 141 may be arrangedat an inner region of the mobile terminal covered by the touch screen,or near the touch screen.

The proximity sensor 141, for example, may include any of a transmissivetype photoelectric sensor, a direct reflective type photoelectricsensor, a mirror reflective type photoelectric sensor, a high-frequencyoscillation proximity sensor, a capacitance type proximity sensor, amagnetic type proximity sensor, an infrared rays proximity sensor, andthe like. When the touch screen is implemented as a capacitance type,the proximity sensor 141 can sense proximity of a pointer relative tothe touch screen by changes of an electromagnetic field, which isresponsive to an approach of an object with conductivity. In this case,the touch screen (touch sensor) may also be categorized as a proximitysensor.

The term “proximity touch” will often be referred to herein to denotethe scenario in which a pointer is positioned to be proximate to thetouch screen without contacting the touch screen. The term “contacttouch” will often be referred to herein to denote the scenario in whicha pointer makes physical contact with the touch screen. For the positioncorresponding to the proximity touch of the pointer relative to thetouch screen, such position will correspond to a position where thepointer is perpendicular to the touch screen. The proximity sensor 141may sense proximity touch, and proximity touch patterns (for example,distance, direction, speed, time, position, moving status, and thelike).

In general, controller 180 processes data corresponding to proximitytouches and proximity touch patterns sensed by the proximity sensor 141,and cause output of visual information on the touch screen. In addition,the controller 180 can control the mobile terminal 100 to executedifferent operations or process different data according to whether atouch with respect to a point on the touch screen is either a proximitytouch or a contact touch.

A touch sensor can sense a touch applied to the touch screen, such asdisplay unit 151, using any of a variety of touch methods. Examples ofsuch touch methods include a resistive type, a capacitive type, aninfrared type, and a magnetic field type, among others.

As one example, the touch sensor may be configured to convert changes ofpressure applied to a specific part of the display unit 151, or convertcapacitance occurring at a specific part of the display unit 151, intoelectric input signals. The touch sensor may also be configured to sensenot only a touched position and a touched area, but also touch pressureand/or touch capacitance. A touch object is generally used to apply atouch input to the touch sensor. Examples of typical touch objectsinclude a finger, a touch pen, a stylus pen, a pointer, or the like.

When a touch input is sensed by a touch sensor, corresponding signalsmay be transmitted to a touch controller. The touch controller mayprocess the received signals, and then transmit corresponding data tothe controller 180. Accordingly, the controller 180 may sense whichregion of the display unit 151 has been touched. Here, the touchcontroller may be a component separate from the controller 180, thecontroller 180, and combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the controller 180 may execute the same ordifferent controls according to a type of touch object that touches thetouch screen or a touch key provided in addition to the touch screen.Whether to execute the same or different control according to the objectwhich provides a touch input may be decided based on a current operatingstate of the mobile terminal 100 or a currently executed applicationprogram, for example.

The touch sensor and the proximity sensor may be implementedindividually, or in combination, to sense various types of touches. Suchtouches includes a short (or tap) touch, a long touch, a multi-touch, adrag touch, a flick touch, a pinch-in touch, a pinch-out touch, a swipetouch, a hovering touch, and the like.

If desired, an ultrasonic sensor may be implemented to recognizeposition information relating to a touch object using ultrasonic waves.The controller 180, for example, may calculate a position of a wavegeneration source based on information sensed by an illumination sensorand a plurality of ultrasonic sensors. Since light is much faster thanultrasonic waves, the time for which the light reaches the opticalsensor is much shorter than the time for which the ultrasonic wavereaches the ultrasonic sensor. The position of the wave generationsource may be calculated using this fact. For instance, the position ofthe wave generation source may be calculated using the time differencefrom the time that the ultrasonic wave reaches the sensor based on thelight as a reference signal.

The camera 121 typically includes at least one a camera sensor (CCD,CMOS etc.), a photo sensor (or image sensors), and a laser sensor.

Implementing the camera 121 with a laser sensor may allow detection of atouch of a physical object with respect to a 3D stereoscopic image. Thephoto sensor may be laminated on, or overlapped with, the displaydevice. The photo sensor may be configured to scan movement of thephysical object in proximity to the touch screen. In more detail, thephoto sensor may include photo diodes and transistors at rows andcolumns to scan content received at the photo sensor using an electricalsignal which changes according to the quantity of applied light. Namely,the photo sensor may calculate the coordinates of the physical objectaccording to variation of light to thus obtain position information ofthe physical object.

The display unit 151 is generally configured to output informationprocessed in the mobile terminal 100. For example, the display unit 151may display execution screen information of an application programexecuting at the mobile terminal 100 or user interface (UI) and graphicuser interface (GUI) information in response to the execution screeninformation.

In some embodiments, the display unit 151 may be implemented as astereoscopic display unit for displaying stereoscopic images. A typicalstereoscopic display unit may employ a stereoscopic display scheme suchas a stereoscopic scheme (a glass scheme), an auto-stereoscopic scheme(glassless scheme), a projection scheme (holographic scheme), or thelike.

In general, a 3D stereoscopic image may include a left image (e.g., aleft eye image) and a right image (e.g., a right eye image). Accordingto how left and right images are combined into a 3D stereoscopic image,a 3D stereoscopic imaging method can be divided into a top-down methodin which left and right images are located up and down in a frame, anL-to-R (left-to-right or side by side) method in which left and rightimages are located left and right in a frame, a checker board method inwhich fragments of left and right images are located in a tile form, aninterlaced method in which left and right images are alternately locatedby columns or rows, and a time sequential (or frame by frame) method inwhich left and right images are alternately displayed on a time basis.

Also, as for a 3D thumbnail image, a left image thumbnail and a rightimage thumbnail can be generated from a left image and a right image ofan original image frame, respectively, and then combined to generate asingle 3D thumbnail image. In general, the term “thumbnail” may be usedto refer to a reduced image or a reduced still image. A generated leftimage thumbnail and right image thumbnail may be displayed with ahorizontal distance difference there between by a depth corresponding tothe disparity between the left image and the right image on the screen,thereby providing a stereoscopic space sense.

A left image and a right image required for implementing a 3Dstereoscopic image may be displayed on the stereoscopic display unitusing a stereoscopic processing unit. The stereoscopic processing unitcan receive the 3D image and extract the left image and the right image,or can receive the 2D image and change it into a left image and a rightimage.

The audio output module 152 is generally configured to output audiodata. Such audio data may be obtained from any of a number of differentsources, such that the audio data may be received from the wirelesscommunication unit 110 or may have been stored in the memory 170. Theaudio data may be output during modes such as a signal reception mode, acall mode, a record mode, a voice recognition mode, a broadcastreception mode, and the like. The audio output module 152 can provideaudible output related to a particular function (e.g., a call signalreception sound, a message reception sound, etc.) performed by themobile terminal 100. The audio output module 152 may also be implementedas a receiver, a speaker, a buzzer, or the like.

A haptic module 153 can be configured to generate various tactileeffects that a user feels, perceive, or otherwise experience. A typicalexample of a tactile effect generated by the haptic module 153 isvibration. The strength, pattern and the like of the vibration generatedby the haptic module 153 can be controlled by user selection or settingby the controller. For example, the haptic module 153 may outputdifferent vibrations in a combining manner or a sequential manner.

Besides vibration, the haptic module 153 can generate various othertactile effects, including an effect by stimulation such as a pinarrangement vertically moving to contact skin, a spray force or suctionforce of air through a jet orifice or a suction opening, a touch to theskin, a contact of an electrode, electrostatic force, an effect byreproducing the sense of cold and warmth using an element that canabsorb or generate heat, and the like.

The haptic module 153 can also be implemented to allow the user to feela tactile effect through a muscle sensation such as the user's fingersor arm, as well as transferring the tactile effect through directcontact. Two or more haptic modules 153 may be provided according to theparticular configuration of the mobile terminal 100.

An optical output module 154 can output a signal for indicating an eventgeneration using light of a light source. Examples of events generatedin the mobile terminal 100 may include message reception, call signalreception, a missed call, an alarm, a schedule notice, an emailreception, information reception through an application, and the like.

A signal output by the optical output module 154 may be implemented insuch a manner that the mobile terminal emits monochromatic light orlight with a plurality of colors. The signal output may be terminated asthe mobile terminal senses that a user has checked the generated event,for example.

The interface unit 160 serves as an interface for external devices to beconnected with the mobile terminal 100. For example, the interface unit160 can receive data transmitted from an external device, receive powerto transfer to elements and components within the mobile terminal 100,or transmit internal data of the mobile terminal 100 to such externaldevice. The interface unit 160 may include wired or wireless headsetports, external power supply ports, wired or wireless data ports, memorycard ports, ports for connecting a device having an identificationmodule, audio input/output (I/O) ports, video I/O ports, earphone ports,or the like.

The identification module may be a chip that stores various informationfor authenticating authority of using the mobile terminal 100 and mayinclude a user identity module (UIM), a subscriber identity module(SIM), a universal subscriber identity module (USIM), and the like. Inaddition, the device having the identification module (also referred toherein as an “identifying device”) may take the form of a smart card.Accordingly, the identifying device can be connected with the terminal100 via the interface unit 160.

When the mobile terminal 100 is connected with an external cradle, theinterface unit 160 can serve as a passage to allow power from the cradleto be supplied to the mobile terminal 100 or may serve as a passage toallow various command signals input by the user from the cradle to betransferred to the mobile terminal there through. Various commandsignals or power input from the cradle may operate as signals forrecognizing that the mobile terminal is properly mounted on the cradle.

The memory 170 can store programs to support operations of thecontroller 180 and store input/output data (for example, phonebook,messages, still images, videos, etc.). The memory 170 may store datarelated to various patterns of vibrations and audio which are output inresponse to touch inputs on the touch screen.

The memory 170 may include one or more types of storage mediumsincluding a Flash memory, a hard disk, a solid state disk, a silicondisk, a multimedia card micro type, a card-type memory (e.g., SD or DXmemory, etc.), a Random Access Memory (RAM), a Static Random AccessMemory (SRAM), a Read-Only Memory (ROM), an Electrically ErasableProgrammable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), a Programmable Read-Only memory(PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, and thelike. The mobile terminal 100 may also be operated in relation to anetwork storage device that performs the storage function of the memory170 over a network, such as the Internet.

The controller 180 may typically control the general operations of themobile terminal 100. For example, the controller 180 may set or releasea lock state for restricting a user from inputting a control commandwith respect to applications when a status of the mobile terminal meetsa preset condition.

The controller 180 can also perform the controlling and processingassociated with voice calls, data communications, video calls, and thelike, or perform pattern recognition processing to recognize ahandwriting input or a picture drawing input performed on the touchscreen as characters or images, respectively. In addition, thecontroller 180 can control one or a combination of those components inorder to implement various exemplary embodiments disclosed herein.

The power supply unit 190 receives external power or provide internalpower and supply the appropriate power required for operating respectiveelements and components included in the mobile terminal 100. The powersupply unit 190 may include a battery, which is typically rechargeableor be detachably coupled to the terminal body for charging.

The power supply unit 190 may include a connection port. The connectionport may be configured as one example of the interface unit 160 to whichan external charger for supplying power to recharge the battery iselectrically connected.

As another example, the power supply unit 190 may be configured torecharge the battery in a wireless manner without use of the connectionport. In this example, the power supply unit 190 can receive power,transferred from an external wireless power transmitter, using at leastone of an inductive coupling method which is based on magnetic inductionor a magnetic resonance coupling method which is based onelectromagnetic resonance.

Various embodiments described herein may be implemented in acomputer-readable medium, a machine-readable medium, or similar mediumusing, for example, software, hardware, or any combination thereof.

Referring now to FIGS. 1B and 1C, the mobile terminal 100 is describedwith reference to a bar-type terminal body. However, the mobile terminal100 may alternatively be implemented in any of a variety of differentconfigurations. Examples of such configurations include watch-type,clip-type, glasses-type, or as a folder-type, flip-type, slide-type,swing-type, and swivel-type in which two and more bodies are combinedwith each other in a relatively movable manner, and combinationsthereof. Discussion herein will often relate to a particular type ofmobile terminal (for example, bar-type, watch-type, glasses-type, andthe like). However, such teachings with regard to a particular type ofmobile terminal will generally apply to other types of mobile terminalsas well.

The mobile terminal 100 will generally include a case (for example,frame, housing, cover, and the like) forming the appearance of theterminal. In this embodiment, the case is formed using a front case 101and a rear case 102. Various electronic components are incorporated intoa space formed between the front case 101 and the rear case 102. Atleast one middle case may be additionally positioned between the frontcase 101 and the rear case 102.

The display unit 151 is shown located on the front side of the terminalbody to output information. As illustrated, a window 151 a of thedisplay unit 151 may be mounted to the front case 101 to form the frontsurface of the terminal body together with the front case 101.

In some embodiments, electronic components may also be mounted to therear case 102. Examples of such electronic components include adetachable battery 191, an identification module, a memory card, and thelike. Rear cover 103 is shown covering the electronic components, andthis cover may be detachably coupled to the rear case 102. Therefore,when the rear cover 103 is detached from the rear case 102, theelectronic components mounted to the rear case 102 are externallyexposed.

As illustrated, when the rear cover 103 is coupled to the rear case 102,a side surface of the rear case 102 is partially exposed. In some cases,upon the coupling, the rear case 102 may also be completely shielded bythe rear cover 103. In some embodiments, the rear cover 103 may includean opening for externally exposing a camera 121 b or an audio outputmodule 152 b.

The cases 101, 102, 103 may be formed by injection-molding syntheticresin or may be formed of a metal, for example, stainless steel (STS),aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), or the like.

As an alternative to the example in which the plurality of cases form aninner space for accommodating components, the mobile terminal 100 may beconfigured such that one case forms the inner space. In this example, amobile terminal 100 having a uni-body is formed in such a manner thatsynthetic resin or metal extends from a side surface to a rear surface.

If desired, the mobile terminal 100 may include a waterproofing unit(not shown) for preventing introduction of water into the terminal body.For example, the waterproofing unit may include a waterproofing memberwhich is located between the window 151 a and the front case 101,between the front case 101 and the rear case 102, or between the rearcase 102 and the rear cover 103, to hermetically seal an inner spacewhen those cases are coupled.

FIGS. 1B and 1C depict certain components as arranged on the mobileterminal. However, it is to be understood that alternative arrangementsare possible and within the teachings of the instant disclosure. Somecomponents may be omitted or rearranged. For example, the firstmanipulation unit 123 a may be located on another surface of theterminal body, and the second audio output module 152 b may be locatedon the side surface of the terminal body.

The display unit 151 outputs information processed in the mobileterminal 100. The display unit 151 may be implemented using one or moresuitable display devices. Examples of such suitable display devicesinclude a liquid crystal display (LCD), a thin film transistor-liquidcrystal display (TFT-LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), aflexible display, a 3-dimensional (3D) display, an e-ink display, andcombinations thereof.

The display unit 151 may be implemented using two display devices, whichcan implement the same or different display technology. For instance, aplurality of the display units 151 may be arranged on one side, eitherspaced apart from each other, or these devices may be integrated, orthese devices may be arranged on different surfaces.

The display unit 151 may also include a touch sensor which senses atouch input received at the display unit. When a touch is input to thedisplay unit 151, the touch sensor may be configured to sense this touchand the controller 180, for example, may generate a control command orother signal corresponding to the touch. The content which is input inthe touching manner may be a text or numerical value, or a menu itemwhich can be indicated or designated in various modes.

The touch sensor may be configured in a form of a film having a touchpattern, disposed between the window 151 a and a display on a rearsurface of the window 151 a, or a metal wire which is patterned directlyon the rear surface of the window 151 a. Alternatively, the touch sensormay be integrally formed with the display. For example, the touch sensormay be disposed on a substrate of the display or within the display.

The display unit 151 may also form a touch screen together with thetouch sensor. Here, the touch screen may serve as the user input unit123 (see FIG. 1A). Therefore, the touch screen may replace at least someof the functions of the first manipulation unit 123 a.

The first audio output module 152 a may be implemented in the form of aspeaker to output voice audio, alarm sounds, multimedia audioreproduction, and the like.

The window 151 a of the display unit 151 will typically include anaperture to permit audio generated by the first audio output module 152a to pass. One alternative is to allow audio to be released along anassembly gap between the structural bodies (for example, a gap betweenthe window 151 a and the front case 101). In this case, a holeindependently formed to output audio sounds may not be seen or isotherwise hidden in terms of appearance, thereby further simplifying theappearance and manufacturing of the mobile terminal 100.

The optical output module 154 can be configured to output light forindicating an event generation. Examples of such events include amessage reception, a call signal reception, a missed call, an alarm, aschedule notice, an email reception, information reception through anapplication, and the like. When a user has checked a generated event,the controller can control the optical output unit 154 to stop the lightoutput.

The first camera 121 a can process image frames such as still or movingimages obtained by the image sensor in a capture mode or a video callmode. The processed image frames can then be displayed on the displayunit 151 or stored in the memory 170.

The first and second manipulation units 123 a and 123 b are examples ofthe user input unit 123, which may be manipulated by a user to provideinput to the mobile terminal 100. The first and second manipulationunits 123 a and 123 b may also be commonly referred to as a manipulatingportion, and may employ any tactile method that allows the user toperform manipulation such as touch, push, scroll, or the like. The firstand second manipulation units 123 a and 123 b may also employ anynon-tactile method that allows the user to perform manipulation such asproximity touch, hovering, or the like.

FIG. 1B illustrates the first manipulation unit 123 a as a touch key,but possible alternatives include a mechanical key, a push key, a touchkey, and combinations thereof.

Input received at the first and second manipulation units 123 a and 123b may be used in various ways. For example, the first manipulation unit123 a may be used by the user to provide an input to a menu, home key,cancel, search, or the like, and the second manipulation unit 123 b maybe used by the user to provide an input to control a volume level beingoutput from the first or second audio output modules 152 a or 152 b, toswitch to a touch recognition mode of the display unit 151, or the like.

As another example of the user input unit 123, a rear input unit (notshown) may be located on the rear surface of the terminal body. The rearinput unit can be manipulated by a user to provide input to the mobileterminal 100. The input may be used in a variety of different ways. Forexample, the rear input unit may be used by the user to provide an inputfor power on/off, start, end, scroll, control volume level being outputfrom the first or second audio output modules 152 a or 152 b, switch toa touch recognition mode of the display unit 151, and the like. The rearinput unit may be configured to permit touch input, a push input, orcombinations thereof.

The rear input unit may be located to overlap the display unit 151 ofthe front side in a thickness direction of the terminal body. As oneexample, the rear input unit may be located on an upper end portion ofthe rear side of the terminal body such that a user can easilymanipulate it using a forefinger when the user grabs the terminal bodywith one hand. Alternatively, the rear input unit can be positioned atmost any location of the rear side of the terminal body.

Embodiments that include the rear input unit may implement some or allof the functionality of the first manipulation unit 123 a in the rearinput unit. As such, in situations where the first manipulation unit 123a is omitted from the front side, the display unit 151 can have a largerscreen.

As a further alternative, the mobile terminal 100 may include a fingerscan sensor which scans a user's fingerprint. The controller 180 canthen use fingerprint information sensed by the finger scan sensor aspart of an authentication procedure. The finger scan sensor may also beinstalled in the display unit 151 or implemented in the user input unit123.

The microphone 122 is shown located at an end of the mobile terminal100, but other locations are possible. If desired, multiple microphonesmay be implemented, with such an arrangement permitting the receiving ofstereo sounds.

The interface unit 160 may serve as a path allowing the mobile terminal100 to interface with external devices. For example, the interface unit160 may include one or more of a connection terminal for connecting toanother device (for example, an earphone, an external speaker, or thelike), a port for near field communication (for example, an InfraredData Association (IrDA) port, a Bluetooth port, a wireless LAN port, andthe like), or a power supply terminal for supplying power to the mobileterminal 100. The interface unit 160 may be implemented in the form of asocket for accommodating an external card, such as SubscriberIdentification Module (SIM), User Identity Module (UIM), or a memorycard for information storage.

The second camera 121 b is shown located at the rear side of theterminal body and includes an image capturing direction that issubstantially opposite to the image capturing direction of the firstcamera unit 121 a. If desired, second camera 121 a may alternatively belocated at other locations, or made to be moveable, in order to have adifferent image capturing direction from that which is shown.

The second camera 121 b can include a plurality of lenses arranged alongat least one line. The plurality of lenses may also be arranged in amatrix configuration. The cameras may be referred to as an “arraycamera.” When the second camera 121 b is implemented as an array camera,images may be captured in various manners using the plurality of lensesand images with better qualities.

As shown in FIG. 1C, a flash 124 is shown adjacent to the second camera121 b. When an image of a subject is captured with the camera 121 b, theflash 124 may illuminate the subject.

As shown in FIG. 1B, the second audio output module 152 b can be locatedon the terminal body. The second audio output module 152 b may implementstereophonic sound functions in conjunction with the first audio outputmodule 152 a, and may be also used for implementing a speaker phone modefor call communication.

At least one antenna for wireless communication may be located on theterminal body. The antenna may be installed in the terminal body orformed by the case. For example, an antenna which configures a part ofthe broadcast receiving module 111 may be retractable into the terminalbody. Alternatively, an antenna may be formed using a film attached toan inner surface of the rear cover 103, or a case that includes aconductive material.

A power supply unit 190 for supplying power to the mobile terminal 100may include a battery 191, which is mounted in the terminal body ordetachably coupled to an outside of the terminal body. The battery 191may receive power via a power source cable connected to the interfaceunit 160. Also, the battery 191 can be recharged in a wireless mannerusing a wireless charger. Wireless charging may be implemented bymagnetic induction or electromagnetic resonance.

The rear cover 103 is shown coupled to the rear case 102 for shieldingthe battery 191, to prevent separation of the battery 191, and toprotect the battery 191 from an external impact or from foreignmaterial. When the battery 191 is detachable from the terminal body, therear case 103 may be detachably coupled to the rear case 102.

An accessory for protecting an appearance or assisting or extending thefunctions of the mobile terminal 100 can also be provided on the mobileterminal 100. As one example of an accessory, a cover or pouch forcovering or accommodating at least one surface of the mobile terminal100 may be provided. The cover or pouch may cooperate with the displayunit 151 to extend the function of the mobile terminal 100. Anotherexample of the accessory is a touch pen for assisting or extending atouch input to a touch screen.

FIG. 2 is a conceptual view of a deformable mobile terminal according toan alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this figure,mobile terminal 200 is shown having display unit 251, which is a type ofdisplay that is deformable by an external force. This deformation, whichincludes display unit 251 and other components of mobile terminal 200,may include any of curving, bending, folding, twisting, rolling, andcombinations thereof. The deformable display unit 251 may also bereferred to as a “flexible display unit.” In some implementations, theflexible display unit 251 may include a general flexible display,electronic paper (also known as e-paper), and combinations thereof. Ingeneral, mobile terminal 200 may be configured to include features thatare the same or similar to that of mobile terminal 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C.

The flexible display of mobile terminal 200 is generally formed as alightweight, non-fragile display, which still exhibits characteristicsof a conventional flat panel display, but is instead fabricated on aflexible substrate which can be deformed as noted previously.

The term e-paper may be used to refer to a display technology employingthe characteristic of a general ink, and is different from theconventional flat panel display in view of using reflected light.E-paper is generally understood as changing displayed information usinga twist ball or via electrophoresis using a capsule.

When in a state that the flexible display unit 251 is not deformed (forexample, in a state with an infinite radius of curvature and referred toas a first state), a display region of the flexible display unit 251includes a generally flat surface. When in a state that the flexibledisplay unit 251 is deformed from the first state by an external force(for example, a state with a finite radius of curvature and referred toas a second state), the display region may become a curved surface or abent surface. As illustrated, information displayed in the second statemay be visual information output on the curved surface. The visualinformation may be realized in such a manner that a light emission ofeach unit pixel (sub-pixel) arranged in a matrix configuration iscontrolled independently. The unit pixel denotes an elementary unit forrepresenting one color.

According to one alternative embodiment, the first state of the flexibledisplay unit 251 may be a curved state (for example, a state of beingcurved from up to down or from right to left), instead of being in flatstate. In this embodiment, when an external force is applied to theflexible display unit 251, the flexible display unit 251 may transitionto the second state such that the flexible display unit is deformed intothe flat state (or a less curved state) or into a more curved state.

If desired, the flexible display unit 251 may implement a flexible touchscreen using a touch sensor in combination with the display. When atouch is received at the flexible touch screen, the controller 180 canexecute certain control corresponding to the touch input. In general,the flexible touch screen is configured to sense touch and other inputwhile in both the first and second states.

One option is to configure the mobile terminal 200 to include adeformation sensor which senses the deforming of the flexible displayunit 251. The deformation sensor may be included in the sensing unit140.

The deformation sensor may be located in the flexible display unit 251or the case 201 to sense information related to the deforming of theflexible display unit 251. Examples of such information related to thedeforming of the flexible display unit 251 may be a deformed direction,a deformed degree, a deformed position, a deformed amount of time, anacceleration that the deformed flexible display unit 251 is restored,and the like. Other possibilities include most any type of informationwhich can be sensed in response to the curving of the flexible displayunit or sensed while the flexible display unit 251 is transitioninginto, or existing in, the first and second states.

In some embodiments, controller 180 or other component can changeinformation displayed on the flexible display unit 251, or generate acontrol signal for controlling a function of the mobile terminal 200,based on the information related to the deforming of the flexibledisplay unit 251. Such information is typically sensed by thedeformation sensor.

The mobile terminal 200 is shown having a case 201 for accommodating theflexible display unit 251. The case 201 can be deformable together withthe flexible display unit 251, taking into account the characteristicsof the flexible display unit 251.

A battery (not shown in this figure) located in the mobile terminal 200may also be deformable in cooperation with the flexible display unit261, taking into account the characteristic of the flexible display unit251. One technique to implement such a battery is to use a stack andfolding method of stacking battery cells.

The deformation of the flexible display unit 251 not limited to performby an external force. For example, the flexible display unit 251 can bedeformed into the second state from the first state by a user command,application command, or the like.

In accordance with still further embodiments, a mobile terminal may beconfigured as a device which is wearable on a human body. Such devicesgo beyond the usual technique of a user grasping the mobile terminalusing their hand. Examples of the wearable device include a smart watch,a smart glass, a head mounted display (HMD), and the like.

A typical wearable device can exchange data with (or cooperate with)another mobile terminal 100. In such a device, the wearable devicegenerally has functionality that is less than the cooperating mobileterminal. For instance, the short-range communication module 114 of amobile terminal 100 may sense or recognize a wearable device that isnear-enough to communicate with the mobile terminal. In addition, whenthe sensed wearable device is a device which is authenticated tocommunicate with the mobile terminal 100, the controller 180 maytransmit data processed in the mobile terminal 100 to the wearabledevice via the short-range communication module 114, for example. Hence,a user of the wearable device can use the data processed in the mobileterminal 100 on the wearable device. For example, when a call isreceived in the mobile terminal 100, the user can answer the call usingthe wearable device. Also, when a message is received in the mobileterminal 100, the user can check the received message using the wearabledevice.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating one example of a watch-typemobile terminal 300 in accordance with another exemplary embodiment. Asillustrated in FIG. 3, the watch-type mobile terminal 300 includes amain body 301 with a display unit 351 and a band 302 connected to themain body 301 to be wearable on a wrist. In general, mobile terminal 300may be configured to include features that are the same or similar tothat of mobile terminal 100 of FIGS. 1A-1C.

The main body 301 may include a case having a certain appearance. Asillustrated, the case may include a first case 301 a and a second case301 b cooperatively defining an inner space for accommodating variouselectronic components. Other configurations are possible. For instance,a single case may alternatively be implemented, with such a case beingconfigured to define the inner space, thereby implementing a mobileterminal 300 with a uni-body.

The watch-type mobile terminal 300 can perform wireless communication,and an antenna for the wireless communication can be installed in themain body 301. The antenna may extend its function using the case. Forexample, a case including a conductive material may be electricallyconnected to the antenna to extend a ground area or a radiation area.

The display unit 351 is shown located at the front side of the main body301 so that displayed information is viewable to a user. In someembodiments, the display unit 351 includes a touch sensor so that thedisplay unit can function as a touch screen. As illustrated, window 351a is positioned on the first case 301 a to form a front surface of theterminal body together with the first case 301 a.

The illustrated embodiment includes audio output module 352, a camera321, a microphone 322, and a user input unit 323 positioned on the mainbody 301. When the display unit 351 is implemented as a touch screen,additional function keys may be minimized or eliminated. For example,when the touch screen is implemented, the user input unit 323 may beomitted.

The band 302 is commonly worn on the user's wrist and may be made of aflexible material for facilitating wearing of the device. As oneexample, the band 302 may be made of fur, rubber, silicon, syntheticresin, or the like. The band 302 may also be configured to be detachablefrom the main body 301. Accordingly, the band 302 may be replaceablewith various types of bands according to a user's preference.

In one configuration, the band 302 may be used for extending theperformance of the antenna. For example, the band may include therein aground extending portion (not shown) electrically connected to theantenna to extend a ground area.

The band 302 may include fastener 302 a. The fastener 302 a may beimplemented into a buckle type, a snap-fit hook structure, a Velcro®type, or the like, and include a flexible section or material. Thedrawing illustrates an example that the fastener 302 a is implementedusing a buckle.

In the following description, embodiments related to a controllingmethod implementable in the above-configured mobile terminal shall bedescribed with reference to the accompanying drawings. It will beappreciated by those skilled in the art that the present invention canbe specified into other form(s) without departing from the spirit orscope of the inventions.

In the following description with reference to FIGS. 4 to 29, a mobileterminal can be embodied into one of the mobile terminals 100, 200 and300 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3.

In the following description, embodiments of the present invention aredescribed in detail with reference to FIG. 4 to FIG. 29. In describingand understanding embodiments of the present invention, the formerdescription with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 can be referred to.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram to describe configuration modules of a mobileterminal according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 4, a mobile terminal according to one embodiment ofthe present invention may include a sensing unit 410, a camera 420, adisplay unit 430, and a controller 440.

The sensing unit 410 senses use's various inputs to the mobile terminaland an environment of the mobile terminal and then delivers a sensingresult to enable to controller 440 to perform a corresponding operation.According to the present invention, the sensing unit 410 may be providedto the display unit 430 so as to be embodied into a touchscreen.According to the present invention, the sensing unit 410 can be embodiedin the sensing unit 140 shown in FIG. 1A.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the sensing unit410 can sense a touch input signal from a user. In doing so, the sensingunit 410 can sense a touch input signal sensed point, a touched size andthe like together. Moreover, the sensing unit 410 can sense amulti-touch input signal. Particularly, the sensing unit 410 can sense atouch input signal of two or more points within a preset time range at atime.

Moreover, the sensing unit 410 can sense a movement of the mobileterminal. For example, the sensing unit 410 can sense a horizontal orvertical rotation of the mobile terminal.

The camera 420 can process or handle an image frame of a still image, amoving image or the like obtained by an image sensor. The processedimage frame can be displayed on the display unit 430 or saved to thememory 170. According to one embodiment of the present invention, thecamera 420 can be focused on a subject contained in a still or movingimage.

The display unit 430 can display visual information. In this case, thevisual information may include text, indicator, icon, content,application, image, video and the like. The display unit 430 can outputvisual information to a screen based on a control command of thecontroller 440. According to the present invention, the display unit 430can be embodied in the display 151 shown in FIG. 1A or the display unit430 shown in FIG. 3A.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the display unit430 can output a currently run camera application. And, the display unit430 can distinguishably output a preview region and a splice regionwithin the camera application.

The controller 440 processes data, controls the aforementionedrespective units of the mobile terminal, and controls datatransmissions/receptions among the units. According to the presentinvention, the controller 440 can be embodied in the controller 180shown in FIG. 1A.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, operationsperformed by the mobile terminal can be controlled by the controller440. Yet, for clarity of the following description, such operations aredescribed as performed/controlled by the mobile terminal in general.

FIG. 5 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a simultaneousshot mode in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of thepresent invention. In the following description of an embodiment withreference to FIG. 5, description redundant with the former descriptionwith reference to FIG. 4 shall be omitted.

Icon Outputted to Control Camera Application

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a mobile terminalmay output, through a camera application, a setting icon 500, a modechange icon 501, a filter change icon 502, a simultaneous/sequentialshot mode change icon 503, a flash adjust icon 504, a view mode changeicon 505, a backward icon 506, a capture icon 507, a record icon 508, agallery thumbnail icon 509, a view angle change icon 5010, and an imageextract icon 5011.

Particularly, the setting icon 500 may correspond to an icon forchanging settings of a camera application. The mode change icon 501 maycorrespond to an icon for changing a shot mode provided by a cameraapplication. The filter change icon 502 may correspond to an icon forchanging a shot filter provided by a camera application. Thesimultaneous/sequential shot mode change icon 503 shall be described indetail later. The flash adjust icon 504 may correspond to an icon foradjusting a flash into AUTO, ON or OFF for an image capture. The viewmode change icon 505 may correspond to an icon for changing a view modeof a camera application. For example, a view mode of a cameraapplication may include a simple mode, a normal mode, and a professionalmode. The view angle change icon 5010 may correspond to an icon forchanging a camera into a normal view angle mode or a wide angle mode.The image extract icon 5011 may correspond to an icon for extracting animage from a memory of a mobile terminal or an external environment.This shall be described in detail with reference to FIG. 11 later.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can output the simultaneous/sequential shot mode change icon503 only in a state that a splice mode is executed through the modechange icon 501. Namely, in a state that is not the slice mode, themobile terminal can output a front/rear camera change icon instead ofthe simultaneous/sequential shot mode change icon 503.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the gallerythumbnail icon 509 may be outputted in a manner that a most recentlycaptured thumbnail is outputted in form of an icon.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, thesimultaneous/sequential shot mode change icon 503 may correspond to anicon for changing a simultaneous shot mode and a sequential shot mode.The simultaneous shot mode shall be described in the embodiments of FIG.5 and FIG. 6, and the sequential shot mode shall be described in theembodiments of FIGS. 7 to 11.

Simultaneous Shot Mode

Referring to a first diagram of FIG. 5, a simultaneous shot mode maycorrespond to a mode for capturing an image in a state that currentlyshot preview images are simultaneously outputted to a first image region510 and a second image region 520, respectively.

Particularly, a mobile terminal may launch a camera application. Hence,the mobile terminal may output the camera application to a display unit.According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can launch a splice mode through a camera application andexecute a simultaneous shot mode in the splice mode. Moreover, althoughall the following embodiments are described as implemented on a cameraor gallery application, they can be implemented on other applicationscapable of performing the equivalent functions as well.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, through a cameraapplication on which a simultaneous shot mode is currently executed, amobile terminal can output a first preview image 511 currently shotthrough a front camera to a first image region 510 and also output asecond preview image 521 currently shot through a rear camera to asecond image region 520.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, through acamera application on which a simultaneous shot mode is currentlyexecuted, a mobile terminal can output a second preview image 521currently shot through a rear camera to a first image region 510 andalso output a first preview image 511 currently shot through a frontcamera to a second image region 520.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a preview imageoutputted from the first image region 510 may correspond to an imagecaptured by a last selected camera in normal mode, and a preview imageoutputted from the second image region 520 may correspond to an imagecaptured by an opposite camera of the preview image outputted from thefirst image 510.

For example, the mobile terminal can correspond to a state that a userends the camera application after capturing the preview image throughthe front camera in normal mode. Thereafter, if the camera applicationis re-launched in the mobile terminal and the simultaneous shot mode isexecuted, the mobile terminal can output the first preview image 511currently shot through the front camera to the first image region 510and also output the second preview image 521 currently shot through therear camera to the second image region 520.

Switching Between Front Camera and Rear Camera

Although not shown in the drawing, if sensing a first input signal forselecting the first or second preview image 511 or 521, the mobileterminal can switch the first preview image 511 and the second previewimage 521 to each other.

For example, in a state that the first preview image 511 and the secondpreview image 521 are outputted to the first image region 510 and thesecond image region 520, respectively, the mobile terminal can sense aninput signal applied by a user in a manner of touching the first previewimage 511 and then flicking downward.

As the mobile terminal senses the flicking input signal, it is able tooutput the second preview image 521 and the first preview image 511 tothe first image region 510 and the second image region 520,respectively. Here, it is a matter of course that a direction of theflicking input signal is non-limited.

Capturing Image

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the firstand second preview images 511 and 521 are outputted, the mobile terminalcan sense a first input signal 530 for selecting the capture icon 507.Here, the first input signal 530 may correspond to various input signalsfor capturing the first and second preview images 511 and 521. Forexample, a user can directly touch the capture icon 507 and also input asignal for selecting the capture icon 507 to the mobile terminal througha preset voice recognition.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 5, as sensing the first inputsignal 530, the mobile terminal can capture the first and second previewimages 511 and 521.

Stopping Outputting Image Extract Icon

According to one embodiment of the present invention, if the first andsecond preview images 511 and 521 are captured, the mobile terminal canstop outputting the image extract icon 5011. Namely, since the first andsecond preview images 511 and 521 are already captured, it isunnecessary to extract an image.

Outputting Quick Share Icon

According to one embodiment of the present invention, if the first andsecond preview images 511 and 521 are captured, the mobile terminal canoutput a quick share icon 5012. Here, the quick share icon 5012 maycorrespond to an icon for quickly sharing a captured image. This shallbe described in detail with reference to FIG. 13 later.

Outputting Cancel, Share and Save Icons

According to one embodiment of the present invention, if both of thefirst and second preview images 511 and 521 are captured, the mobileterminal can output a cancel icon 5013, a share icon 5014, and a saveicon 5015.

Here, if the cancel icon 5013 is selected, the mobile terminal canperform a function of returning back by cancelling ‘save’ or ‘share’ ofa captured image. If the share icon 5014 is selected, the mobileterminal can perform a function of sharing a captured image with anotherdevice or sever. If the save icon 5015 is selected, the mobile terminalcan perform a function of saving a captured image to the mobileterminal. This shall be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 12to 14 later.

Moving, Enlarging and Reducing Captured Preview Image

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 5, the mobile terminal can sense asecond input signal 540 for selecting the captured second preview image521. Here, the second input signal 540 may correspond to a touch inputsignal applied in a manner of touching the second preview image 521 andthen pinching out.

As the mobile terminal senses the second input signal 540, the mobileterminal can change at least one of a size and location of the outputtedsecond preview image 521. Referring to the aforementioned example, ifsensing a pinch-out touch input as the second input signal 540, themobile terminal can control a size of the second preview image 521 toincrease. Likewise, if the second input signal 540 is a pinch-in touchinput, it is a matter of course that a size of the second preview image521 can be controlled to decrease.

Moreover, although not shown in the drawing, the second input signal 540may correspond to a touch input signal applied in a manner of touchingthe second preview image 521 and then dragging. In this case, as thesecond input signal 540 is sensed, the mobile terminal can move thelocation of the second preview image 521 on the basis of a direction fordragging the second preview image 521. For example, if a user touchesand then drags the second preview image 521 upward as the second inputsignal 540, the mobile terminal can move the second preview image 521upward as sensing the second input signal 540. Moreover, although notshown in the drawing.

Moreover, although not shown in the drawing, if sensing a third inputsignal (not shown) for selecting the captured first preview image 511,it is a matter of course that the mobile terminal can control the firstpreview image 511.

Moreover, although the drawing shows that the second input signal 540 orthe third input signal selects a captured preview image, it is a matterof course that the second input signal 540 or the third input signal canbe sensed in a state that a shot is currently taken in the preview imageregion.

FIG. 6 is a diagram to describe another example of executing asimultaneous shot mode in a mobile terminal according to one embodimentof the present invention. In the following description of an embodimentwith reference to FIG. 12, description redundant with the formerdescription with reference to FIG. 11 shall be omitted.

Unlike the embodiment of FIG. 5, the embodiment of FIG. 6 relates torecording a video in simultaneous shot mode.

Referring to a first diagram of FIG. 6, through a camera applicationcurrently executing a simultaneous shot mode, a mobile terminal canoutput a first preview image 611 currently shot through a front camerato a first image region 610 and also output a second preview image 621currently shot through a rear camera to a second image region 620.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the firstand second preview images 611 and 621 are outputted, the mobile terminalcan sense a first input signal 630 for selecting a record icon. Forexample, a user can touch the record icon with a preset pressure.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 6, as sensing the first inputsignal 630, the mobile terminal can record the first and second previewimages 611 and 621.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as sensing thefirst input signal 630, the mobile terminal can record the first andsecond preview images 611 and 621 during a preset time from a timing ofsensing the first input signal 630. For example, the mobile terminal canrecord the first and second preview images 611 and 621 during 3 secondsfrom a timing of selecting the record icon.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, after sensingthe first input signal 630, the mobile terminal can record the first andsecond preview images 611 and 621 until sensing a second input signal(not shown) for selecting the record icon again.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the firstand second preview images 611 and 621 are recorded, the mobile terminalcan output a record indicator 640 indicating that the first and secondpreview images 611 and 621 are being recorded.

Here, the record indicator 640 may indicate a preset time. For example,if the preset time is 3 seconds, the mobile terminal can output aremaining record time of the first and second preview images 611 and 621in form of countdown through the record indicator 640.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the firstand second preview images 611 and 621 are recorded, the mobile terminalcan stop outputting a capture icon, a record icon and a gallerythumbnail icon. Namely, the mobile terminal can output a backward icononly while the first and second preview images 611 and 621 are recorded.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, if the recordingof the first and second preview images 611 and 621 is completed, themobile terminal can automatically play a recorded first video 612 and arecorded second video 622.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 6, while the first and secondvideos 612 and 622 are automatically played, the mobile terminal cansense a third input signal 650 for selecting the first or second video612 or 622. Here, the third input signal 650 may correspond to a touchinput signal applied in a manner of touching a random point of thecurrently played first or second video 612 or 622.

Referring to a fourth diagram of FIG. 6, as sensing the third inputsignal 650, the mobile terminal can stop playing the first and secondvideos 612 and 622. Moreover, in response to the third input signal 650,the mobile terminal may output a play indicator 660.

Although not shown in the drawing, as sensing an input signal forselecting the play indicator 660, the mobile terminal can play the firstand second videos 612 and 622. In doing so, the mobile terminal may playthe first and second videos 612 and 622 from the beginning or the stoptiming.

FIG. 7 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a sequentialshot mode in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of thepresent invention. In the following description of an embodiment withreference to FIG. 7, description redundant with the former descriptionwith reference to FIGS. 4 to 6 shall be omitted.

In the embodiments of FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, a mobile terminal can change asimultaneous shot mode into a sequential shot mode through asimultaneous/simultaneous shot mode change icon within a cameraapplication.

Moreover, in the embodiments of FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the mobile terminaloutputs a preview image in vertical mode (e.g., portrait mode). Yet, inthe embodiment of FIG. 7, the mobile terminal outputs a preview image inhorizontal mode (e.g., landscape mode). In this case, a control iconoutputted within a camera application can be automatically moved basedon the landscape mode.

Referring to a first diagram of FIG. 7, a mobile terminal can execute asequential shot mode through a camera application. Here, the sequentialshot mode may correspond to a mode for sequentially capturing previewimages currently shot in a first image region 710 and a second previewimage region 720.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal may correspond to a state that a first preview image 711 isoutputted to the first image region 710. Namely, the mobile terminal maycorrespond to a state that the first image region 710 is active. Indoing so, the mobile terminal may maintain the second image region 720in inactive state. For example, the mobile terminal can output thesecond preview image 721 outputted to the second image region 720 in amanner of being dimmed.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can output an image extract icon 7011 to the active first imageregion 710. Here, the image extract icon may correspond to an icon forextracting an image from a memory of the terminal or an externalenvironment. This shall be described in detail with reference to FIG. 11later.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a first input signal 730 for selecting a capture iconfor capturing the first preview image 711.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 7, as the first input signal 730is sensed, the mobile terminal can capture the first preview image 711outputted to the first image region 710.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as sensing thefirst input signal 730, the mobile terminal can change the inactivesecond image region 720 into an active state. As the second image region720 is changed into the active state, the mobile terminal can output thesecond preview image 721 currently shot through a camera to the secondimage region 720. If the aforementioned example is described, the mobileterminal can clearly output the dimly outputted second preview image721.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal stops outputting the image extract icon 7011 outputted to thefirst image region 710 and outputs the image extract icon 7011 to theactive second image region 720.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a second input signal 740 for selecting a captureicon for capturing the second preview image 721.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 7, as sensing the second inputsignal, the mobile terminal can capture the second preview image 712outputted to the second image region 720.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, if both of thefirst preview image 711 and the second preview image 721 are captured,the mobile terminal can output a cancel icon, a share icon and a saveicon. Namely, the mobile terminal can capture both of the first previewimage 711 and the second preview image 721 and then save or share themas a single image. This shall be described in detail with reference toFIGS. 12 to 14 later.

FIG. 8 is a diagram to describe another example of executing asequential shot mode in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment ofthe present invention. In the following description of an embodimentwith reference to FIG. 12, description redundant with the formerdescription with reference to FIGS. 4 to 7 shall be omitted.

Referring to a first diagram of FIG. 8, through a camera applicationcurrently executing a sequential shot mode, a mobile terminal maycorrespond to a state that a first image region 810 and a second imageregion 811 are outputted. Namely, the mobile terminal may correspond toa state that the first image region is active. In doing so, the mobileterminal may maintain the second image region 820 in inactive state.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the firstpreview image 811 is outputted, the mobile terminal may sense a firstinput signal 830 for selecting a record icon.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 8, as sensing the first inputsignal 830, the mobile terminal can record the first preview image 811for a preset time from a timing of sensing the first input signal 830.For example, the mobile terminal can record the first preview image 811for 3 seconds from a timing of selecting the record icon.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the firstpreview image 811 is recorded, the mobile terminal can output a recordindicator 840 indicating that the first preview image 811 is beingrecorded. Here, the record indicator 840 may indicate a preset time. Forexample, if the preset time is 3 seconds, the mobile terminal can outputa remaining record time of the first preview image 811 through therecord indicator 640.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the firstpreview image 811 is recorded, the mobile terminal can stop outputting acapture icon, a record icon and a gallery thumbnail icon but output abackward icon only.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 8, as the recoding of the firstpreview image 811 is completed, the mobile terminal can output athumbnail of a recorded first video 812 to the first image region 810.

Particularly, the mobile terminal can record the first preview image forthe preset time. Hence, if the preset time expires, the mobile terminalcan stop the recording of the first preview image 811. And, the mobileterminal can output a thumbnail corresponding to one of a plurality offrames included in the recorded first video 812 to the first imageregion 810.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as the recordingof the first video 812 is completed, the mobile terminal can changes thesecond image region 820 into an active state. As the second image region820 is changed into the active state, the mobile terminal can output thesecond preview image 821 currently shot through the camera to the secondimage region 820.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the secondpreview image 821 is outputted to the second image region 820, themobile terminal can sense a second input signal 850 for selecting arecord icon.

Referring to a fourth diagram of FIG. 8, as sensing the second inputsignal 850, the mobile terminal can record the second preview image 821for a preset time from a timing of sensing the second input signal 850.Here, the preset time may include the time equal to or different fromthe time of recording the first preview image 811.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the secondpreview image 821 is recorded, the mobile terminal can output a recordindicator 840 indicating that the second preview image 821 is beingrecorded.

Like the aforementioned embodiment, while the second preview image 821is recorded, the mobile terminal can stop outputting a capture icon, arecord icon and a gallery thumbnail icon but output a backward icononly.

Although not shown in the drawing, if the preset time expires, themobile terminal may stop the recording of the second preview image 821.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as the recoding ofthe second preview image 821 is completed, the mobile terminal canoutput a thumbnail of a recorded second video to the second image region820.

Thereafter, after recording both of the first video 812 and the secondvideo, the mobile terminal may save or share them as a single video.This shall be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 12 to 14later.

Moreover, although the following embodiment is described with referenceto an image, it is a matter of course that a video is applicable to allembodiments.

FIG. 9 is a diagram to describe another example of executing asequential shot mode in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment ofthe present invention. In the following description of an embodimentwith reference to FIG. 9, description redundant with the formerdescription with reference to FIGS. 4 to 8 shall be omitted.

Referring to a first diagram of FIG. 9, a mobile terminal may correspondto a state that a first preview image 911 is captured in a first imageregion 910 and a state that a second preview image 921 is outputted to asecond image region 920. Here, a subject contained in the first previewimage 911 may correspond to a state of a first direction and a subjectcontained in the second preview image 921 may correspond to a state of asecond direction. For example, a subject contained in the first previewimage 911 may correspond to a state of a horizontal direction (i.e.,landscape direction) and a subject contained in the second preview image921 may correspond to a state of a vertical direction (i.e., portraitdirection.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 9, while the first preview image911 is captured in the first image region 910 and the second previewimage 921 is outputted to the second image region 920, the mobileterminal can sense a rotation of the mobile terminal.

Particularly, the mobile terminal can sense a rotation of the mobileterminal through a gyroscopic sensor provided to the mobile terminal orthe like. For example, a user can rotate the mobile terminal from avertical mode (e.g., portrait mode) to a horizontal mode (e.g.,landscape mode).

If sensing the rotation of the mobile terminal, the mobile terminal cancontrol the first preview image 911 captured in the first image region910 not to be automatically rotated.

For example, since the first preview image 911 is already captured, asthe mobile terminal is rotated from the vertical mode to the horizontalmode, a direction of a subject contained in the first preview image maybe turned from the horizontal direction to the vertical direction.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, since the secondimage region 920 outputted by the mobile terminal intactly outputs animage outputted through a camera, although the mobile terminal isrotated, the second preview image 921 outputted to the second imageregion 920 can maintain an unrotated state.

Considering the aforementioned example, if the mobile terminal isrotated in the horizontal mode, a subject contained in the secondpreview image 921 outputted to the second image region 920 can maintainthe vertical direction.

Namely, in case of the present invention, in completing a new image bymerging the first preview image 911 and the second preview image 921, auser may intend to create an image containing a subject having variousdirections. Hence, although the mobile terminal is rotated, the firstpreview image 911 included in the first preview region 910 may becontrolled not to be rotated.

Thus, if sensing a first signal 930 for capturing the second previewimage 921, the mobile terminal may intactly capture the second previewimage 921 in the state that the subject is in the vertical direction andthen output the captured image to the second image region 920.

After capturing the second preview image 921, if the mobile terminal isrotated into the vertical mode, like a third diagram of FIG. 9, thesubject contained in the second preview image 921 outputted from thesecond image region 920 may correspond to a state of the horizontaldirection.

FIG. 10 is a diagram to describe another example of executing asequential shot mode in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment ofthe present invention. In the following description of an embodimentwith reference to FIG. 10, description redundant with the formerdescription with reference to FIGS. 4 to 9 shall be omitted.

Referring to a first diagram of FIG. 10, a mobile terminal can execute asequential shot mode through a camera application.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can output a first preview image 1011 currently shot through acamera to a first image region 1010 and deactivate a second image region1020.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a first input signal 1030 for selecting a captureicon for capturing the first preview image 1011.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 10, as sensing the first inputsignal 1030, the mobile terminal can capture the first pre view image1011 outputted to the first image region 1010.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as sensing thefirst input signal 1030, the mobile terminal can changes the deactivatedsecond image region 1020 into an active state.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the firstpreview image 1011 is outputted to the first image region 1010 and thesecond image region 1020 is active, the mobile terminal can sense asecond input signal 1040 for selecting a backward icon.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 10, as sensing the second inputsignal 1040, the mobile terminal may delete the first preview image 1011outputted to the first image region 1010 and output the second previewimage 1012 currently shot through the camera.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as sensing thesecond input signal 1040, the mobile terminal can change the secondimage region 1020 into an inactive state. Namely, as sensing the secondinput signal 1040 for selecting the backward icon, the mobile terminalcan return to the embodiment of the first diagram of FIG. 10.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the secondpreview image 1012 is outputted to the first image region 1010 and thesecond image region 1020 is inactive, the mobile terminal may sense athird input signal 1050 for selecting the backward icon.

Referring to a fourth diagram of FIG. 10, as sensing the third inputsignal 1050, the mobile terminal can end the execution of the splicemode while maintaining the launched camera application. Namely, assensing the third input signal 1050, the mobile terminal can end theslice mode and launch the camera application in normal mode.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as sensing thethird input signal 1050, the mobile terminal can end the launched cameraapplication. As the camera application is ended, the mobile terminal canlaunch another application currently run in the background.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, as sensing thethird input signal 1050, the mobile terminal can end the launched cameraapplication and output a home screen to a display unit. In case that thecamera application is launched in the mobile terminal, the mobileterminal may end the launched camera application and output the homescreen.

FIG. 11 is a diagram to describe further example of executing asequential shot mode in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment ofthe present invention. In the following description of an embodimentwith reference to FIG. 11, description redundant with the formerdescription with reference to FIGS. 4 to 10 shall be omitted.

Referring to a first diagram of FIG. 11, a mobile terminal can execute asequential shot mode through a camera application.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can activate a first image region 1110 and deactivate a secondimage region 1120. The mobile terminal can output a first preview imagecurrently shot through a camera to the first image region 1110.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a first input signal 1130 for selecting an imageextract icon outputted to the first image region 1110.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 11, as sensing the first inputsignal 1130, the mobile terminal can output a gallery application 1140to a display unit. Here, the gallery application 1140 may correspond toan application for outputting an image stored in the mobile terminal oran external memory.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as sensing thefirst input signal 1130, the mobile terminal can extract an image froman external device or server through a wireless communication unit.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a second input signal 1150 for selecting a firstimage 1141 outputted through the gallery application 1140.

Moreover, as sensing the second input signal 1150, the mobile terminalmay output a screen for editing the first image 1141 [not shown in thedrawing]. Particularly, through the screen for editing the first image1141, the mobile terminal may crop, pan, enlarge, reduce, or rotate thefirst image 1141.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 11, as sensing the second inputsignal, the mobile terminal may output the first image 1141 to the firstimage region 1110.

Moreover, after outputting the first image 1141 to the first imageregion 1110, the mobile terminal may pan, enlarge or reduce the firstimage 1141 in response to an input signal for selecting the first image1141 [not shown in the drawing].

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as sensing thesecond input signal 1150, the mobile terminal can change the secondimage region 1120 into an active state. As the second image region 1120is changed into the active state, the mobile terminal may output thefirst preview image 1111 currently shot through the camera to the secondimage region 1120.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as the first image1141 is outputted to the first region 1110, the mobile terminal canoutput a rotate icon 1160 to the first image region 1110.

Here, the rotate icon 1160 may correspond to an icon for rotating thefirst image 1141 by 90 degrees counterclockwise. For example, while thefirst image 1141 is outputted, if a user selects the rotate icon 1160twice, the mobile terminal can rotate the outputted first image 1141 by180 degrees counterclockwise.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the firstimage 1141 is outputted to the first image region 1110 and the firstpreview image 1111 is outputted to the second image region 1120, themobile terminal can output an image swap icon 1161 to a space betweenthe first image 1141 and the first preview image 1111.

Here, the image swap icon 1161 may correspond to an icon for swappingthe first image 1141 outputted to the first image region 1110 for thefirst preview image 1111 outputted to the second image region 1120. Forexample, if a user selects the image swap icon 1161, the mobile terminalcan output the first preview image 1111 and the first image 1141 to thefirst image region 1110 and the second image region 1120, respectively.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal may sense a third input signal 1170 for capturing the firstpreview image 1111 currently outputted to the second image region 1120.

Referring to a fourth diagram of FIG. 11, as sensing the third inputsignal 1170, the mobile terminal may capture the first preview image1111 currently outputted to the second image region 1120.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as sensing thethird input signal 1170, the mobile terminal may output the first image1141 to the first image region 1110 and capture to output the firstpreview image 1111 to the second image region 112.

Therefore, the mobile terminal can save or share the first image 1141and the first preview image 1111 as a single image by splicing the firstimage 1141 and the first preview image 1111 together.

FIG. 12 is a diagram to describe one example of saving a shot image in amobile terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention. Inthe following description of an embodiment with reference to FIG. 12,description redundant with the former description with reference toFIGS. 4 to 11 shall be omitted.

A first diagram of FIG. 12 shows a complete image from theaforementioned embodiment. Particularly, a mobile terminal executes asplice mode on a camera application and is able to complete a singleimage by splicing two images together through a simultaneous orsequential shot mode. For example, the mobile terminal can output acoupled image 1231 resulting from splicing a first image 1211 and asecond image 1221 together through the camera application.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the coupledimage 1231 is outputted, the mobile terminal can sense a first inputsignal (not shown) for selecting at least one of the first image 1211,the second image 1221 and the coupled image 1231. Here, as described inthe third diagram of FIG. 5, the first input signal may correspond to aninput signal for controlling a previously captured image. For example,as sensing the first input signal, the mobile terminal can pan, rotate,enlarge or reduce at least one of the first image 1211, the second image1221 and the coupled image 1231.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, if the coupledimage 1231 is outputted, the mobile terminal may output an icon forcontrolling a complete coupled image 1231 to the camera application.Here, the icon for controlling the coupled image 1231 may include acancel icon, a share icon and a save icon.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the coupledimage 1231 is outputted, the mobile terminal can sense a first inputsignal 1240 for selecting the save icon to save at least one of thefirst image 1211, the second image 1221 and the coupled image 1231. Inthe following description, an embodiment that the first input signal1240 selects the save icon to save the coupled image 1231 is taken as anexample.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 12, as sensing the first inputsignal 1240, the mobile terminal can output a progress popup 1250 ontothe coupled image 1231. Here, the progress popup 1250 may correspond toa popup indicating that the first image 1211 and the second image 1221are spliced together to be saved.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 12, as sensing the first inputsignal 1240, the mobile terminal can save the coupled image 1231.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as the coupledimage 1231 is completely saved, the mobile terminal can return to theprevious mode of the camera application.

For example, the mobile terminal may correspond to a state of executingthe splice mode on the camera application and then completing thecoupled image 1231 through the simultaneous shot mode. As the saving ofthe coupled image 1231 is completed, the mobile terminal can execute thesimultaneous mode through the camera application.

Namely, the mobile terminal executes the simultaneous shot mode of thecamera application, thereby outputting the currently shot first andsecond preview images 1212 and 1222 to the first and second imageregions 1210 and 1220, respectively.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as the saving ofthe coupled image 1231 is completed, the mobile terminal may output asave popup 1260.

Thus, a user can save the previous coupled image 1231 and then shoot anew image.

FIG. 13 is a diagram to describe one example of sharing a shot image ina mobile terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention.In the following description of an embodiment with reference to FIG. 13,description redundant with the former description with reference toFIGS. 4 to 12 shall be omitted.

A first diagram of FIG. 13 corresponds to the first diagram of FIG. 12.Namely, a mobile terminal executes a splice mode on a camera applicationand is able to complete a single image by splicing two images togetherthrough a simultaneous or sequential shot mode. For example, the mobileterminal can output a coupled image 1331 resulting from splicing a firstimage 1311 and a second image 1321 together through the cameraapplication.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, if the coupledimage 1331 is outputted, the mobile terminal can output an icon forcontrolling the completed coupled image 1331 to the camera application.Here, the icon for controlling the coupled image 1331 may include acancel icon, a share icon and a save icon.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the coupledimage 1331 is outputted, the mobile terminal may sense a first inputsignal 1340 for selecting the share icon for sharing at least one of thefirst image 1311, the second image 1321 and the coupled image 1331.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 13, as sensing the first inputsignal 1340, the mobile terminal can output a progress popup 1350 ontothe coupled image 1331. Here, the progress popup 1350 may correspond toa popup indicating that the first image 1311 and the second image 1321are spliced together to be shared.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 13, as sensing the first inputsignal 1340, the mobile terminal can save the coupled image 1331.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as sensing thefirst input signal 1340, the mobile terminal can output a share targetlist 1360 to a display unit. Moreover, although not shown in thedrawing, in response to an input signal for selecting a share targetcontained in the share target list 1360, the mobile terminal can sharethe coupled image 1331 with the selected share target. In doing so, themobile terminal can share the coupled image 1331 with an external deviceor server through a wireless communication unit.

FIG. 14 is a diagram to describe one example of returning to a previouscamera mode in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of thepresent invention. In the following description of an embodiment withreference to FIG. 14, description redundant with the former descriptionwith reference to FIGS. 4 to 13 shall be omitted.

A first diagram of FIG. 14 corresponds to the first diagram of FIG. 13.Namely, a mobile terminal executes a splice mode on a camera applicationand is able to complete a single image by splicing two images togetherthrough a simultaneous or sequential shot mode. For example, the mobileterminal can output a coupled image 1431 resulting from splicing a firstimage 1411 and a second image 1421 together through the cameraapplication.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, if the coupledimage 1431 is outputted, the mobile terminal can output an icon forcontrolling the completed coupled image 1431 to the camera application.Here, the icon for controlling the coupled image 1431 may include acancel icon, a share icon and a save icon.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the coupledimage 1431 is outputted, the mobile terminal may sense a first inputsignal 1440 for selecting the cancel icon.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 14, as sensing the first inputsignal 1440, the mobile terminal can return to a previous mode of thecamera application without saving or sharing an outputted photo.

For example, if the previous mode of the camera application correspondsto a simultaneous shot mode from a splice mode, as the first inputsignal 1440 is sensed, the mobile terminal can output a first previewimage 1412 currently shot through a front camera and a second previewimage 1422 currently shot through a rear camera to a first image region1410 and a second image region 1420, respectively.

FIG. 15 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a splice modein a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of the presentinvention. In the following description of an embodiment with referenceto FIG. 15, description redundant with the former description withreference to FIGS. 4 to 14 shall be omitted.

Referring to a first diagram of FIG. 15, a mobile terminal launches acamera application and is able to execute a splice mode on the cameraapplication. Here, the splice mode may correspond to a mode foroutputting a splice region 1510 and a preview image region 1520 to adisplay unit by partition the display unit.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can output a first preview image 1521 currently shot through acamera and a first splice image 1511 recommended on the basis of thefirst preview image 1521 to the preview image region 1520 and the spliceregion 1510, respectively.

Particularly, the mobile terminal can recommend the splice image 1511based on at least one of an outline, color and category of the firstpreview image 1521. This shall be described in detail with reference toFIGS. 14 to 22 later.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can obtain the splice image 1511 through a memory providedinside or outside the mobile terminal. For example, the mobile terminalcan obtain an image saved to a gallery application. And, the mobileterminal can obtain the splice image 1511 from a web browser, an SNS, anexternal server and the like through a wireless communication unit.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the firstsplice image 1511 and the first preview image 1521 are outputted, themobile terminal can receive a first input signal 1530 for selecting acapture icon for capturing the first preview image 1521.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 15, as sensing the first inputsignal 1530, the mobile terminal can capture and output the firstpreview image 1521 to the preview image region 1520. In doing so, asdescribed above, if the first preview image 1521 is captured, the mobileterminal outputs an icon for controlling a coupled image resulting fromsplicing the first splice image 1511 and the first preview image 1521together.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the firstsplice image 1511 and the first preview image 1521 are outputted, themobile terminal can sense a second input signal 1540 for selecting thefirst splice image 1511 or the first preview image 1521. Here, thesecond input signal 1540 may correspond to a preset touch input signalfor selecting an image to change. For example, if intending to changethe recommended first splice image 1511, a user can touch the firstsplice image 1511 over a preset time.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 15, as sensing the second inputsignal 1540, the mobile terminal can output a change reference popup1550 to the selected image. Here, the change reference popup 1550 maycorrespond to a popup including a reference for changing an outputtedimage. For example, the change reference popup may include an outline, acolor, a category and the like. This shall be described in detail withreference to FIGS. 16 to 22 later.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as sensing thesecond input signal 1540, the mobile terminal can highlight to display aselected image. For example, if a user intends to change the firstsplice image 1511 by long touching the first splice image 1511, themobile terminal can highlight to display the first splice image 1511.

FIG. 16 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a splice modeon the basis of an outline in a mobile terminal according to oneembodiment of the present invention. In the following description of anembodiment with reference to FIG. 16, description redundant with theformer description with reference to FIGS. 4 to 15 shall be omitted.

A first diagram of FIG. 16 corresponds to the third diagram of FIG. 15.Namely, the mobile terminal can correspond to a state that a firstsplice image 1611 outputted to a splice region 1610 is selected.Moreover, while the first splice image 1611 is selected, the mobileterminal can output a change reference popup 1650.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a first input signal 1630 for selecting ‘outline’from the change reference included in the change reference popup 1650.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 16, as sensing the first inputsingle 1630, the mobile terminal can determine outlines of the firstsplice image 1611 and a first preview image 1621.

Particularly, the mobile terminal can determine an outline of a contactspot between the first splice image 1611 and the first preview image1621. Here, the mobile terminal analyzes an outline of a subject byseparately recognizing a subject and background contained in each of thefirst splice image 1611 and the first preview image 1621 and is thenable to calculate a size of a cut face.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can output the determined outline as a dotted line onto atleast one of the first splice image 1611 and the first preview image1621.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can search other splice images that can be spliced to the firstpreview image 1621 based on the determined outline. In doing so, themobile terminal can search other splice images, which can be spliced tothe first preview image 1621, through a gallery application, an externalserver and the like.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, since the firstsplice image 1611 is changed in response to the first input signal 1630,the mobile terminal can stop outputting a control icon for controllingat least one of the first splice image 1611, the first preview image1621 and a coupled image.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 16, if finding a second spliceimage 1612 that can be spliced to the first preview image 1621, themobile terminal can output a guide indicator 1640 onto the first spliceimage 1611. Here, the second splice image 1612 may correspond to animage containing a subject having an outline that can be spliced to thefirst preview image 1621.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a second input signal 1660 for selecting the firstsplice image 1611 in a preset direction based on the guide indicator1640. For example, a user can touch the first splice image 1611 and thendrag it to the left.

Referring to a fourth diagram of FIG. 16, as sensing the second inputsignal 1660, the mobile terminal can output the second splice image 1612to the splice region 1610.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as outputting thesecond splice image 1612, the mobile terminal can output an icon forcontrolling a coupled image resulting from splicing the first spliceimage 1612 and the first preview image 1621 together.

FIG. 17 is a diagram to describe another example of executing a splicemode on the basis of an outline in a mobile terminal according to oneembodiment of the present invention. In the following description of anembodiment with reference to FIG. 17, description redundant with theformer description with reference to FIGS. 4 to 16 shall be omitted.

Referring to a first diagram of FIG. 17, a mobile terminal maycorrespond to a state that a splice image 1711 and a preview image 1721currently shot through a camera are outputted to a spice region 1710 anda preview image region 1720, respectively.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a first input signal 1730 for selecting a captureicon for capturing the preview image 1721.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 17, as sensing the first inputsignal 1730, the mobile terminal can recognize a width and angle of asection on which subjects contained in the splice image 1711 and thepreview image 1721 meet. As sensing the first input signal 1730, themobile terminal can extract outlines of subjects contained in the spliceimage 1711 and the preview image 1721. In the embodiment of the seconddiagram of FIG. 17, the subjects contained in the splice image 1711 andthe preview image 1721 are in a state of failing to meet precisely.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, in order to matchup the sections on which the subjects contained in the splice image 1711and the preview image 1721 meet, the mobile terminal can automaticallypan, rotate, enlarge or reduce the splice image 1711. Moreover, based onthe outlines of the subjects contained in the splice image 1711 and thepreview image 1721, the mobile terminal can automatically pan, rotate,enlarge or reduce the splice image 1711.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, based on a user'sinput, the mobile terminal can pan, rotate, enlarge or reduce the spliceimage 1711 or the preview image 1721.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 17, by panning, rotating, enlargingor reducing the splice image 1711 or the preview image 1721, the mobileterminal can correct to match up the sections of the subjects containedin the splice image 1711 and the preview image 1721.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, if the sections ofthe subjects contained in the splice image 1711 and the preview image1721 are matched up within a preset error range, the mobile terminal cancreate a coupled image 1740 resulting from splicing the slice image 1711and the preview image 1721 together.

Thereafter, as creating the coupled image 1740, the mobile terminal canoutput an icon for controlling the coupled image 1740.

FIG. 18 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a splice modeon the basis of a color in a mobile terminal according to one embodimentof the present invention. In the following description of an embodimentwith reference to FIG. 18, description redundant with the formerdescription with reference to FIGS. 4 to 17 shall be omitted.

A first diagram of FIG. 18 corresponds to the first diagram of FIG. 16.Namely, while a first splice image 1811 outputted to a splice region1810 is selected, a mobile terminal can output a change reference popup1850.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a first input signal 1830 for selecting ‘color’ fromthe change reference included in the change reference popup 1850.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 18, as sensing the first inputsingle 1830, the mobile terminal can determine the color of a subjectcontained in the first splice image 1811.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can determine a color of a section on which the first spliceimage 1811 and the first preview image 1821 meet. The mobile terminalmay search other splice images that can be spliced to the first previewimage 1821 based on the determined color.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 18, if finding a second spliceimage 1812 that can be spliced to the first preview image 1821, themobile terminal can output a guide indicator 1840 onto the first spliceimage 1811. Here, the second splice image 1812 may correspond to animage, of which portion meeting the first preview image 1821 has asimilar color.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a second input signal 1860 for selecting the firstsplice image 1811 in a preset direction based on the guide indicator1840.

Referring to a fourth diagram of FIG. 18, as sensing the second inputsignal 1860, the mobile terminal can output the second splice image 1812to the splice region 1810.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can create a coupled image 1870 resulting from splicing thefirst splice image 1812 and the first preview image 1821 together.Thereafter, as creating the coupled image 1870, the mobile terminal canoutput an icon for controlling the coupled image 1870.

FIG. 19 is a diagram to describe another example of executing a splicemode on the basis of a color in a mobile terminal according to oneembodiment of the present invention. In the following description of anembodiment with reference to FIG. 19, description redundant with theformer description with reference to FIGS. 4 to 18 shall be omitted.

Referring to a first diagram of FIG. 19, a mobile terminal can execute asplice mode through a camera application. The mobile terminal can outputa splice region 1910 and a preview image region 1920 to a display unitby partitioning. And, the mobile terminal can output a splice image anda preview image 1921 currently shot through a camera to the spliceregion 1910 and the preview image region 1920, respectively.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a first input signal 1930 for selecting the spliceimage 1911. Here, the first input signal 1930 may correspond to an inputsignal of touching the splice image 1911 in a preset manner. Forexample, a user can apply a long press touch to the splice image 1911.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 19, as sensing the first inputsignal 1930, the mobile terminal can output a color list 1940. Here, thecolor list 1940 may correspond to a list on which colors included in theselected splice image 1911 are extracted and listed. For example, thesplice image 1911 may include orange, black and green.

Here, the color list 1940 may correspond to a list on which colorsincluded in the selected splice image 1911 are extracted and listed inorder of a higher use rate. Particularly, the color list 1940 mayinclude all colors included in a subject or background contained in thesplice image 1911.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as sensing thefirst input signal 1930, the mobile terminal can highlight to displaythe preview image 1921. Namely, as sensing the first input signal 1930,the mobile terminal can highlight to display the preview image 1921 inorder to indicate that the color extracted from the splice image 1911 isapplicable to the preview image 1921.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a second input signal 1950 for selecting a firstcolor included in the color list 1940. For example, the first color maycorrespond to orange.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 19, as sensing the second inputsignal 1950, the mobile terminal can change a color of a subject of thepreview image 1921, which meets a subject corresponding to the firstcolor of the splice image 1911 into the first color. The aforementionedexample can be described as follows. First of all, the color of thesubject of the preview image 1921 can be changed into orange.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the color ofthe subject contained in the preview image is changed into the firstcolor, the mobile terminal can sense a third input signal 1960 forcapturing the preview image 1921.

Referring to a fourth diagram of FIG. 19, as sensing the third inputsignal 1960, the mobile terminal can create a coupled image 1970resulting from splicing the splice image 1911 and the preview image 1921containing the subject, of which color is changed into the first color,together.

Namely, the mobile terminal changes the color of the subject of thepreview image 1921 using the color included in the splice image 1911,thereby naturally coupling the splice image 1911 and the preview image1921 with each other.

FIG. 20 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a splice modeon the basis of a category in a mobile terminal according to oneembodiment of the present invention. In the following description of anembodiment with reference to FIG. 20, description redundant with theformer description with reference to FIGS. 4 to 19 shall be omitted.

A first diagram of FIG. 20 corresponds to the first diagram of FIG. 18.Namely, while a first splice image 2011 outputted to a splice region2010 is selected, a mobile terminal can output a change reference popup2050.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a first input signal 2030 for selecting ‘category’from the change reference included in the change reference popup 2050.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 20, as sensing the first inputsingle 2030, the mobile terminal can determine the category of a subjectcontained in the first splice image 2011. The mobile terminal may searchother splice images that can be spliced to the first preview image 2021based on the determined category.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 20, if finding a second spliceimage 2012 that can be spliced to the first preview image 2021, themobile terminal can output a guide indicator 2040 onto the first spliceimage 2011. Here, the second splice image 2012 may correspond to animage having the same category of the first splice image 2011.

For example, if the subject contained in the first splice image 2011 is‘dog's head’, the mobile terminal can determine the category of thefirst splice image 2011 as ‘animal’. Hence, the mobile terminal cansearch for ‘horse's head’ as the second splice image 2012.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a second input signal 2060 for selecting the firstsplice image 2011 in a preset direction based on the guide indicator2040.

Referring to a fourth diagram of FIG. 20, as sensing the second inputsignal 2060, the mobile terminal can output the second splice image 2012to the splice region 2010.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can create a coupled image 2070 resulting from splicing theoutputted second splice image 2012 and the first preview image 2021together.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal may output a search list 2080 for selecting a place forsearching for the second splice image 2012. This shall be described indetail with reference to FIG. 21 as follows.

FIG. 21 is a diagram to describe another example of executing a splicemode on the basis of a category in a mobile terminal according to oneembodiment of the present invention. In the following description of anembodiment with reference to FIG. 21, description redundant with theformer description with reference to FIGS. 4 to 20 shall be omitted.

A first diagram of FIG. 21 corresponds to the third diagram of FIG. 20.Namely, a mobile terminal may correspond to a state of outputting afirst splice image 2111 and a preview image 2121 to a splice region 2110and a preview image region 2120, respectively. Here, a category of asubject contained in the first splice image 2111 may correspond to‘animal’.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can output a search list 2180 for selecting a site forsearching for other images having the same category of the first spliceimage 2112. For example, the search list 2180 may include a galleryapplication, a website, a cloud, an SNS and the like.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a first input signal 2130 for selecting a firstsearch site. For example, the first search site may correspond to awebsite.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 21, as sensing the first inputsignal 2130, the mobile terminal can search the first search site for asecond splice image 2112 having the same category of the first spliceimage 2111.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, if finding thesecond splice image 2112, the mobile terminal can output the secondsplice image 2112 to the splice region 2110. If further finding a thirdsplice image 2113 having the same category of the first splice image2111 from the first search site, the mobile terminal can output a guideindicator 2140 onto the second splice image 2112.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, based on the guideindicator 2140, the mobile terminal can sense a second input signal 2160for selecting the second splice image 2112 in a preset direction.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 21, as sensing the second inputsignal 2160, the mobile terminal can output the third splice image 2113to the splice region 2110.

Namely, the mobile terminal can output a plurality of images having thesame category of the first splice image 2111 at the selected firstsearch site to the splice region 2110.

Moreover, although not shown in the drawing, the mobile terminal mayrecommend other images based on the search site. Particularly, based onthe first search site, the mobile terminal can output a plurality ofimages having the same category of the first splice image 2111.

For example, if the first search site is a website outputting a designimage, the mobile terminal can output an animal image designed well. Onthe other hand, if a second search site is a gallery applicationinstalled on the mobile terminal, the mobile terminal can output animage captured by a user. If a third search site is an SNS, the mobileterminal can output an animal image outputted to the SNS.

Therefore, the user can use a plurality of images recommended by varioussearch environments as splice images.

FIG. 22 is a diagram to describe further example of executing a splicemode on the basis of a category in a mobile terminal according to oneembodiment of the present invention. In the following description of anembodiment with reference to FIG. 22, description redundant with theformer description with reference to FIGS. 4 to 21 shall be omitted.

Referring to a first diagram of FIG. 22, a mobile terminal can output animage through a camera application. In doing so, the mobile terminal canoutput the image in a manner of partitioning the outputted image into afirst image region 2210 and a second image region 2220. Namely, themobile terminal can output a first image 2211 corresponding to a top ofthe image and a second image 2221 corresponding to a bottom of the imageto the first image region 2210 and the second image region 2220,respectively.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can maintain the first image 2211 outputted to the first imageregion 2210 and the second image 2221 outputted to the second imageregion 2220 as a photographable region and a splice region,respectively.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can output a function swap icon 2230. Here, the function swapicon 2230 may correspond to an icon for swapping functions of the firstimage region 2210 and the second image region 2220.

Namely, as sensing a first input signal 2240 for selecting the functionswap icon 2230, the mobile terminal can maintain the first image 2211outputted to the first image region 2210 and the second image 2221outputted to the second image region 2220 as the splice region and thephotographable region, respectively.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 22, the mobile terminal can changethe first image 2211 maintained as the splice region.

Particularly, the mobile terminal can search for a first splice image2212 based on a category of the first image 2211. In doing so, themobile terminal determines a subject contained in the first image 2211,thereby being able to determine a search site to search for the firstsplice image 2212.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, if the search siteto search for the first splice image 2212 is determined, the mobileterminal can output a search site icon 2250 onto the first image 2211.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the searchsite icon 2250 is outputted, the mobile terminal can sense a secondinput signal 2260 for capturing the second image 2221.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 22, as sensing the second inputsignal 2260, the mobile terminal can capture and output the second image2221 to the second image region 2220.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can output the first splice image 2212 having the same categoryof the subject contained in the first image 2210 to the first imageregion 2210. For example, if the subject contained in the first image2221 corresponds to a first human face, the first splice image 2212 maycorrespond to a second human face.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the firstsplice image 2212 is outputted, the mobile terminal can sense a thirdinput signal 2270 for selecting the first splice image 2212 in a firstdirection. For example, the first direction may correspond to aleft-right direction.

Referring to a fourth diagram of FIG. 22, as sensing the third inputsignal 2270, the mobile terminal can search the search site for a secondsplice image 2213 having a category different from that of the firstsplice image 2212 and then output the second splice image 2213. Theabove example is described as follows. First of all, if the first spliceimage 2212 is the second human face, the second splice image 2213 maycorrespond to a first animal face.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the secondsplice image 2213 is outputted, the mobile terminal can sense a fourthinput signal 2280 for selecting the second splice image 2213 in a seconddirection. Here, the second direction may correspond to a directiondifferent from the first direction. For example, the second directionmay correspond to a top-bottom direction.

Referring to a fifth direction of FIG. 22, as sensing the fourth inputsignal 2280, the mobile terminal can search the search site for a thirdsplice image 2214 having the same category of the second splice image2213 and then output the third splice image 2214. The above example isdescribed as follows. First of all, if the second splice image 2213 isthe first animal face, the third splice image 2214 may correspond to asecond animal face.

FIG. 23 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a splice modeon the basis of a location in a mobile terminal according to oneembodiment of the present invention. In the following description of anembodiment with reference to FIG. 23 description redundant with theformer description with reference to FIGS. 4 to 22 shall be omitted.

Referring to a first diagram of FIG. 23, a mobile terminal can execute asplice mode through a camera application. The mobile terminal can outputa region to a display unit by partitioning it into a splice region 2310and a preview image region 2320.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can output a preview image to the preview image region 2320.While the preview image 2321 is outputted, the mobile terminal can sensea first input signal 2330 for capturing the preview image 2321.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 23, as sensing the first inputsignal 2330, the mobile terminal can output the captured preview imageto the preview image region 2320.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can detect a pose of a subject contained in the capturedpreview image 2321. Moreover, the mobile terminal can detect an actionof the subject contained in the captured preview image 2321.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, based on thedetected pose of the subject, the mobile terminal can search for animage outputted to the splice region 2310. Particularly, the mobileterminal can search for a splice image 2311 connectible to the action ofthe subject contained in the preview image 2321.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 23, after finding the splice image2311, the mobile terminal can output the splice image 2311 to the spliceregion 2310. For example, the subject contained in the preview image2321 may take an action of pushing something with a right hand. Themobile terminal detects the subject's action, thereby being able tosearch for an image of ‘the Leaning Tower of Pisa’ as the splice image2311.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal may output the splice image 2311 and the preview image 2321 tothe splice region 2310 and the preview image region 2320, respectively.The mobile terminal can create a coupled image 2340 by naturallysplicing the outputted splice image 2311 and the outputted preview image2321 together.

Therefore, the mobile terminal can shoot the preview image 2321,recommend the splice image 2311 matching the pose of the subjectcontained in the preview image 2321, and then output the recommendedimage 2311. And, the mobile terminal may create a new image by splicingthe splice image 2311 and the preview image 2321 together.

FIG. 24 is a diagram to describe another example of executing a splicemode on the basis of a location in a mobile terminal according to oneembodiment of the present invention. In the following description of anembodiment with reference to FIG. 24, description redundant with theformer description with reference to FIGS. 4 to 23 shall be omitted.

Referring to a first diagram of FIG. 24, a mobile terminal can output apreview image 2411, which is currently shot using a camera, through acamera application. According to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the mobile terminal can sense a first input signal 2430 forcapturing the preview image 2411.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 24, as sensing the first inputsignal 2430, the mobile terminal can determine a current location atwhich the preview image 2411 is currently shot. Particularly, the mobileterminal can determine the location at which the preview image 2411 iscurrently shot through a location information module of a wirelesscommunication unit.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can search for a splice image 2421 based on the determinedlocation. Particularly, the mobile terminal can search whether alandmark exists within a preset range from a current location at whichthe preview image 2411 is currently shot. For example, if the mobileterminal shoots the preview image 2411 near the Eiffel Tower, the mobileterminal can determine the Eiffel Tower as a landmark and search for‘Eiffel Tower image’.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, if the spliceimage 2421 is found, the mobile terminal can output a recommended imagepopup 2440. Here, the recommended image popup 2440 may correspond to apopup for querying whether to connect the found splice image 2421.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a second input signal 2450 for connecting the spliceimage 2421 through the recommended image popup 2440.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 24, as sensing the second inputsignal 2450, the mobile terminal can output the preview image 2411 andthe found spice image 2421 to the preview image region 2410 and thesplice region 2420, respectively.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, for the connectionto the splice image 2421, the mobile terminal can adjust a size,location and direction of the preview image 2411 centering on a subjectcontained in the preview image 2411.

Thereafter, the mobile terminal creates a coupled image 2460 by splicingthe preview image 2411 and the splice image 2421 together, therebysaving or sharing the coupled image 2460.

FIG. 25 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a splice modeon the basis of a direction of a subject in a mobile terminal accordingto one embodiment of the present invention. In the following descriptionof an embodiment with reference to FIG. 25, description redundant withthe former description with reference to FIGS. 4 to 24 shall be omitted.

Referring to a first diagram of FIG. 25, a mobile terminal can output asplice image 2511 thorough a gallery application or a cameraapplication. Here, the splice image 2511 may contain a subject in avertical direction. According to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the mobile terminal can sense a first input signal 2530 forselecting the splice image 2511.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 25, as sensing the first inputsignal 2530, the mobile terminal can execute a splice mode on the cameraapplication. According to one embodiment of the present invention, assensing the first input signal 2530, the mobile terminal can output thesplice image 2511 and a preview image currently shot through a camera tothe splice region 2510 and the preview image region 2520, respectively.

When the mobile terminal outputs the splice image 2511 to the spliceregion 2510, the mobile terminal can adjust a size, location anddirection of the splice image 2511 centering on the subject contained inthe splice image 2511.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, since the subjectcontained in the splice image 2511 is in a vertical direction, themobile terminal can rotate to output the splice image 2511 in the spliceregion 2510. In order to naturally connect the splice image 2511 and thepreview image 2521 to each other, the mobile terminal can enlarge tooutput the splice image 2511.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can output a guide popup 2540 instructing to change a directionof the preview image 2511 based on the direction of the subjectcontained in the splice image 2511. For example, if the subjectcontained in the splice image 2511 is in a vertical direction, themobile terminal can guide the mobile terminal to be rotated in thevertical direction in the preview image 2520.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 25, the mobile terminal havingrotated in the vertical direction can output the splice image 2511 andthe preview image 2521 to the splice region 2510 and the preview imageregion 2520, respectively.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can capture the preview image 2521 connected to the spliceregion 2511 by checking the image 2521.

FIG. 26 is a diagram to describe another example of executing a splicemode on the basis of a direction of a subject in a mobile terminalaccording to one embodiment of the present invention. In the followingdescription of an embodiment with reference to FIG. 26, descriptionredundant with the former description with reference to FIGS. 4 to 25shall be omitted.

Referring to a first diagram of FIG. 26, a mobile terminal can execute asplice mode through a camera application. The mobile terminal can outputa preview image 2621 currently shot through a camera to a preview imageregion 2620. For example, a subject contained in the preview image 2621is taking an action of pushing something in a left direction with bothhands.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a first input signal 2630 for capturing the previewimage 2621. As sensing the first input signal 2630, the mobile terminalcan detect a direction of the subject contained in the preview image2621. The above example is described as follows. First of all, themobile terminal can detect that the subject contained in the previewimage 2621 takes an action of pushing in a left direction.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 26, the mobile terminal canautomatically rotate the preview image 2621. Particularly, if detectingthat the subject contained in the preview image 2621 takes an action ofpushing in a left direction, the mobile terminal can rotate the previewimage 2621 by 90 degrees clockwise in order to splice an action ofpushing the splice image 2611 that will be outputted to the spliceregion 2610.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as the previewimage 2621 is rotated, the mobile terminal can output a guide popup 2640indicating a rotation of the mobile terminal to the splice region 2610.For example, the mobile terminal can output the guide popup 2640indicating to rotate the mobile terminal in a horizontal direction.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 26, the mobile terminal havingrotated in the horizontal direction can output the splice image 2611 andthe preview image 2621 to the splice region 2610 and the preview imageregion 2620, respectively. Here, the splice image 2611 may correspond toan image recommended on the basis of the action of the subject containedin the preview image 2621.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal creates a coupled image 2650 resulting from splicing the spliceimage 2611 and the preview image 2621 together, thereby being able tosave or share the coupled image 2650.

FIG. 27 is a diagram to describe further example of executing a splicemode on the basis of a direction of a subject in a mobile terminalaccording to one embodiment of the present invention. In the followingdescription of an embodiment with reference to FIG. 27, descriptionredundant with the former description with reference to FIGS. 4 to 26shall be omitted.

Referring to a first diagram of FIG. 27, a mobile terminal can execute asplice mode through a camera application. The mobile terminal can outputa preview image 2721 currently shot through a camera to a preview imageregion 2720. For example, a subject contained in the preview image 2721is taking an action of pushing something in a right direction with bothhands.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a first input signal 2730 for capturing the previewimage 2721. As sensing the first input signal 2730, the mobile terminalcan detect a direction of the subject contained in the preview image2721. The above example is described as follows. First of all, themobile terminal can detect that the subject contained in the previewimage 2721 takes an action of pushing in a right direction.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 27, the mobile terminal canautomatically reverse the preview image 2721 right and left.Particularly, if detecting that the subject contained in the previewimage 2721 takes an action of pushing in a right direction, the mobileterminal can reverse the preview image 2721 right and left in order tosplice an action of pushing the splice image 2711 that will be outputtedto the splice region 2710.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, as the previewimage 2721 is reversed, the mobile terminal can output a guide popup2740 indicating the reversal of the preview image 2721 to the spliceregion 2710.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 27, the mobile terminal can outputthe splice image 2711 and the preview image 2721 to the splice region2710 and the preview image region 2720, respectively. Here, the spliceimage 2711 may correspond to an image recommended on the basis of theaction of the subject contained in the preview image 2721.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal creates a coupled image 2750 resulting from splicing the spliceimage 2711 and the preview image 2721 together, thereby being able tosave or share the coupled image 2750.

FIG. 28 is a diagram to describe one example of executing a splice modeon the basis of a moving speed or a moving direction of a subject in amobile terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention. Inthe following description of an embodiment with reference to FIG. 28,description redundant with the former description with reference toFIGS. 4 to 25 shall be omitted.

Referring to a first diagram of FIG. 28, a mobile terminal can execute asplice mode through a camera application. In doing so, the mobileterminal can output a splice mage 2811 and a preview image 2821 to asplice region 2810 and a preview image region 2820, respectively. Here,the slice image 2811 may contain a first subject and the preview image2821 may contain a second subject.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can sense a first input signal 2830 for recording the previewimage 2821.

Referring to a second diagram of FIG. 28, as sensing the first inputsignal 2830, the mobile terminal can record the preview image 2821outputted to the preview image region 2820 since the timing of sensingthe first input signal 2830.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can detect at least one of a moving speed and direction of thesecond subject contained in the currently recorded preview image 2821.For example, the second subject may move from right to left at the speedof 2 km/h.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the mobileterminal can control the first subject contained in the splice image2811 to move based on at least one of the moving speed and direction ofthe second subject. The above example is described as follows. First ofall, as detecting that the second subject is moving from right to leftat the speed of 2 km/h, the mobile terminal can control the firstsubject to move from right to left at the speed of 2 km/h. In doing so,the mobile terminal can move the first subject as if the first subjectcontained in the splice image 2811 and the second subject contained inthe preview image 2821 move together.

Referring to a third diagram of FIG. 28, the mobile terminal can detectthat the second subject contained in the preview image 2821 changes themoving direction. As detecting that the moving direction of the secondsubject is changed, the mobile terminal can change the moving directionof the first subject.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, while the previewimage 2821 is recorded, the mobile terminal can control the firstsubject to move based on at least one of a moving speed and direction ofthe second subject. Hence, the first subject contained in the spliceimage 2811 and the second subject contained in the preview image 2821can be recorded as moving together.

Thereafter, the mobile terminal can record and save the splice image2811 and the preview image 2821 in a splice state.

Besides, although the drawings are described separately for clarity, itis possible to implement new embodiments by merging the embodimentsdescribed in the respective drawings.

FIG. 29 is a flowchart to describe one example of executing a splicemode in a mobile terminal according to one embodiment of the presentinvention. The respective steps described with reference to FIG. 29 canbe controlled by the controller of FIG. 1A.

In a step S2910, a mobile terminal can launch a camera application. Indoing so, the mobile terminal can output various control icons forcapturing or recording a preview image through the camera application.Particularly, a mode change icon for changing a mode of the cameraapplication and a simultaneous/sequential shot mode change icon can beoutputted together.

In a step S2920, the mobile terminal can execute a splice mode on thecamera application. Here, the splice mode may correspond to a mode foroutputting a preview image region and a splice region onto a displayunit by partitioning. And, the splice mode may correspond to a modesettable on the camera application.

In a step S2930, the mobile terminal can output a preview imagecurrently shot through a camera to the preview image region.

In a step S2940, the mobile terminal can recommend a splice imageoutputted to the splice region based on the outputted preview image. Themobile terminal can recommend a splice image based on at least one of anoutline, color and category of the outputted preview image. And, themobile terminal can pan, rotate, enlarge and reduce the recommendedsplice image to splice to the preview image.

Moreover, it is a matter of course that the former embodiments describedwith reference to FIGS. 5 to 28 can be implemented as a mobile terminalcontrolling method like FIG. 29.

The present invention mentioned in the foregoing description can beimplemented in a program recorded medium as computer-readable codes. Thecomputer-readable media may include all kinds of recording devices inwhich data readable by a computer system are stored. Thecomputer-readable media may include HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (SolidState Disk), SDD (Silicon Disk Drive), ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tapes,floppy discs, optical data storage devices, and the like for example andalso include carrier-wave type implementations (e.g., transmission viaInternet). Further, the computer may include the controller 180 of theterminal. The foregoing embodiments are merely exemplary and are not tobe considered as limiting the present disclosure. The present teachingscan be readily applied to other types of methods and apparatuses. Thus,it is intended that the present invention covers the modifications andvariations of this invention that come within the scope of the appendedclaims and their equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A mobile terminal, comprising: a sensing unit; acamera; a display unit; and a controller configured to launch a cameraapplication, wherein the controller is further configured to execute asplice mode on the camera application, wherein the splice mode is a modeconfigured for outputting a preview image region and a splice region tothe display unit by partitioning a display area of the display unit, andwherein the controller is further configured to output a preview imagecurrently shot through the camera to the preview image region and tooutput a recommended splice image, for splicing to the preview image, tothe splice region based on the output preview image.